PUBLIC HEARING 

DOCUMENTATION

Appendix

F

F. Public Hearing Documentation
Tier 2 Evaluation 

Comment Disposition Table 
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

SP1 Tier 2 Design and 

Construction

Anonymous, Make sure adjacent land owners are kept appraised of construction activities. The public engagement program will be carried forward to design and construction. 

SP2 Tier 2 General Comment Kruger, Ben I have already said my piece. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP3 Tier 2 General Comment Watt, John Very ambitious project. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP4 Tier 2 General Comment Hanger, Jonas I expected to hear a discussion whereby proponents and opponents would be given an opportunity to 

voice their opinion ones on this issue. Although the displays were somewhat helpful, it seems as though a 

discussion would have allowed me to better understand this project. Will there be another opportunity 

where, perhaps, a panel will discuss everything and allow open comment/question?

The public engagement process will continue through design and construction and will 

provide numerous opportunities to obtain information, ask questions and allow 

comments. 

SP5 Tier 2 General Comment Anonymous, Not enough team members to answer questions. Difficult to determine who could be approached to assist 

with questions.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP6 Tier 2 General Comment Kruger, Peg Very helpful! There were personnel to answer every question and concern. Comprehensive materials 

covered every aspect of the project. Very professional! Keep us informed! 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP7 Tier 2 General Comment Anonymous, 

Facebook, Official IL 

high Speed Rail

Great job! The large aerial view map/photo was very helpful. Nice layout of the room. Keep fighting the 

good fight!

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP8 Tier 2 General Comment Oxtoby, Carolyn Because I live downtown and have rehabbed five buildings, I am passionate about not obstructing traffic, 

car and foot. Am also passionate about increasing train passenger count. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP9 Tier 2 General Comment Blazis, Janice 

IL State Fair

Nobody could answer how they will cut down part of the old Sangamon Building (EPA) and leave the other 

two parts of the building standing.

Only a portion of the building currently housing the EPA is required for the project. Means 

to continue use of the remaining portions of the building will be at the discretion of the 

owner.

SP10 Tier 2 General Comment Roberts, Mr. David 

cfcl

I'm more concerned about the 19th street/grand line. I've lived there for the last 6 years. There's no safety 

gate at this crossing. South Grand is a very busy intersection, having grandkids I can't allow them to even 

venture out the front door because of traffic trying to beat the light signal, which only encouraged drivers 

to speed up, instead of slowing down. My other concern is hiring local workers for whatever site selected. 

You would have to include people with backgrounds, because the entire city of Springfield include 

underachievers and such.

An underpass will be constructed at the South Grand crossing of the 19th Street tracks. 

This will eliminate the safety concerns associated with the existing at-grade crossing.

SP11 Tier 2 General Comment Hicks, Darrell I'm all for the high speed railway. More jobs as long as we keep crooked politicians out of this it will go. If 

not it won't.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP12 Tier 2 General Comment Anonymous, 

Neighborhood 

Association

Past time to move forward Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP13 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Napier, Ashley According to the map, my property is not on the list to be displaced. After looking at the plans the lines run 

right against if not into my house. I would like it to be displaced. Either way too much of my property will 

be taken by this.

The effect of the project on the property at 2219 S. 6th street has been re-evaluated and it 

has been determined that it should be purchased for the project. This property will be 

shown as a displacement in future documents. 

SP14 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Patterson, Donna I've been at 2114 South 9th street for 27 years and is very upsetting to me to have the move from there. 

My concerns are the same as Joe Eatons.

The design of the cul-de-sac on the north end of 9th Street has been revised to eliminate 

the need to purchase the property at 2114 S. 9th Street. The property will not be shown as 

a displacement in future documents. 

SP15 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Blevins, Joel If part of my property is purchased, can I ask them to purchase it all? The proposed tracks would be quite 

close to my house but it is not listed as even being an "increased noise" area... if I read the map correctly.

Based on preliminary analysis it does not appear that the house at 2428 South 4th Street 

would need to be acquired for the Springfield Rail Improvements Project. However, a 

portion of the property would be required for construction of the project. During 

negotiations for acquisition of right-of-way from this parcel, consideration will be given to 

acquiring an easement to mitigate future train noise conditions. 

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP16 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Chapman, Michelle I live at 2409 South 5th, Springfield IL and I believe I will be affected and would need to be included in your 

list of acquisitions. My neighbors at 2405 and 2407 are included. My only access to my driveway is an alley 

from Iles. Putting the new tracks will affect my yard size and driveway. The name on my property deed was 

wrong in your letter to me. It is now Victor Howlett. Please correct, Thanks.

The effect of the project on the property at 2409 S. 5th Street has been re-evaluated and it 

has been determined that it should be purchased for the project. This property will be 

shown as a displacement in future documents. 

SP17 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Anonymous, How I feel about this, the job has got to be done so I can't stop nothing. Whether I vote or don't vote, 

they're still going to get the job done, so I have to cooperate so we can make it easy, you know, if I 

cooperate. This has got to be done, so okay. We've got to have it through there so I might as well vote 

yes. This plan about...we're close to the track. How are they going to get us off the track? Are they going 

to move us somewhere? They'll find us somewhere to stay. I won't worry about that. The job has got to 

be done. I realize that. So I guess that's all I have to say.

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons displaced by projects such as this 

one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance for displaced persons.

SP18 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Masen, Lester We employ 40-60 employees annually. Your plan shows the acquisition of more than half of our 

warehouse space and yard storage. Additionally, we have a cell tower in your area of acquisition. Our firm 

could not maintain its operations on the remaining properties. We would require a similar warehouse and 

storage space that we currently utilize. Our businesses affected are: Evans-Mason, Inc. Schmaldt and 

Davids, Inc. Masonry Consortium 

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for businesses displaced by projects such as 

this one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance.

SP19 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Galsgi, Ted I am concerned in that the acquisition of our properties will not be fairly valued and the destruction of our 

infrastructure is eminent. 

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons displace by projects such as this 

one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance for displaced persons.

SP20 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Powell, Linda We own 3 of the lots (2 houses) on the 1100 block of 10th north street that are being left in the one block 

not taken for the train. This will make the 5 houses left hard to rent or sell. We would like them bought 

also.

Based on preliminary analysis it does not appear that the houses on the west side of 10th 

Street between division and reservoir streets would need to be acquired for the 

Springfield Rail Improvements Project. 

SP21 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Powell, John We own 2 houses on the block of houses that are being left on the north 10th street. The 5 houses on the 

block will be inconvenient to get to and hard to rent or sell. We would like them to be included when 

buying property for the trains.

Based on preliminary analysis it does not appear that the houses on the west side of 10th 

Street between division and reservoir streets would need to be acquired for the 

Springfield Rail Improvements Project. 

SP22 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Grady, Pat I would like you to consider taking my home since the home next to me at 2500 Burton will be taken along 

with the business directly across my street at 401 Illinois. My address is 2506 Burton. Would like hearing 

from you, 217-522-3109 or cell 217-891-5536. Thank you for your consideration. You have done a very 

good job in reaching out to the community.

Based on preliminary analysis it does not appear that this house would need to be 

acquired for the Springfield Rail Improvements Project. 

SP23 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Winger, Sam I have lots of unanswered questions about the purchase of my location. Do I move? Do I stay? What will be 

value of my location now? Will it go up or down? Will this help us serve more people? I wish the plans 

were more up to date. I hope someone will help me and my group know the best way to move forward.

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons displace by projects such as this 

one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance for displaced persons. A land acquisition 

public meeting will be held during the next phase of the project to answer questions such 

as these.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP24 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Anonymous, My house is one of the properties that would be affected by plan 2A. I do think 2A is the best option of the 

available options at this time. That's not my issue. My issue is what happens to the, not even just the 

property owners but the owner-occupied homeowners, what happens with them. You know, everyone 

uses very loose terms like "long." How do you define long? What is long -- six months, six years? What 

does that mean? And even though we all had plans about what we were going to do before July 1st or 

whenever that article came out in the paper, do those plans get discarded because why would you invest 

more money in a house that's going to be torn down? And you have no idea for real how the appraisal 

process works when you're overdeveloped for an area, but how do you not do stuff to your house when 

it's not accessible. It's not handicapped accessible. I am for the plan, but I'm not liking the situation at all. 

I understand the process isn't finished yet, but it seems like even when the process is finished, if this is 

approved in December, no one knows when or if they're funded for property acquisition, which is not at 

all helpful if you're a property owner. That's about it. No, it's not. I'm worried, I'm so worried about the 

appraisal process, I really am. I cannot stress that enough. Now I'm finished.

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons displace by projects such as this 

one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance for displaced persons. A land acquisition 

public meeting will be held during the next phase of the project to answer questions such 

as these.

SP25 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Donathan, VicePresident Mission 

services LLGI, Greg 

I am representing the Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries located at 800 North 10th street, 62702. LLGI is 

in favor of High Speed Rail and looks forward to cooperative exploring how it's building and property might 

be useful in order to further high speed train service for our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP26 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Anonymous, It is time to fish or cut bait. Dragging the property acquisition on for years is not fair or right. Property that 

is on the acquisition list in now in limbo. Is it almost impossible to lease or sell. How do you make decisions 

on what to do with maintenance and repair?

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons displace by projects such as this 

one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance for displaced persons. A land acquisition 

public meeting will be held during the next phase of the project to answer questions such 

as these.

SP27 Tier 2 Noise and 

Vibration

Blackwell, Arthur My statement is that I'm assuming that most of these people on this committee or on this program have 

never lived next to a railroad track and they have no idea. I've been there 70 some years, and the trains 

make a lot of noise. Even though 20 they don't blow a whistle and they don't ring the bell, they still make 

a lot of noise. If they're talking about 42 trains within a 24-hour period, that's every half hour. You realize 

what it will do to your sleep and the vibration continuous? All the houses have a brick footing and they 

have a tendency to crumble. Like people, after awhile, they start deteriorating, and if you're not there to 

maintain it...in my case I won't be there... what's going to happen to them old houses after they start 

deteriorating. I know they're going to put a barrier, I'm assuming they're going to put a barrier up there, 

but is it going to help keep the noise down and the vibration? It won't keep the vibration down, and it 

won't keep the noise down so that's my comment. Like I said, I believe that most of these people that's on 

this committee that's doing this have no idea what it's like living close to a track. When I was a young 

person living on 10-1/2, 1529, I could hear the train on 20 the 18th Street corridor, and I could hear the 

train on the Third Street corridor, and you can hear the old clickety-clack on them tracks back then. Now 

they weld them, but in those days you could hear the clickety-clack at o'clock at night. So that's just what I 

want you to let them know that I know. That's all I have to say.

The issue of noise and vibration from increases in rail traffic caused by the project are 

dealt with in the Final EIS. The EIS indicates that the Springfield Project will result in 

decreases in noise throughout the City, and that increases in vibrations are below the level 

that would cause structural damage. Because of the reductions in noise due to the 

project, a noise wall is not currently proposed. There are nine residences that wll 

experience a moderate noise impact, and the various mitigation measures identified in the 

EIS will be evaluated during design

SP28 Tier 2 Suggested Change Brennan, Francis Cul-de-sac on Wirt - not necessary for the population on wirt between ash and south Street. The cul-de-sac is being provided in accordance with the Springfield ordinance requiring a 

place for service and emergency vehicles to turn around on a dead-end street.

SP29 Tier 2 Suggested Change Anonymous, 10th street must be moved now or it will never happen. Not only will this eliminate another set of tracks 

but it will open a north/south corridor for a roadway on the east side of town. There presently is no 

north/south road between 11th and 13th street.

Relocating the 10th Street corridor was considered among the preliminary screening 

alternatives and was eliminated because of high costs and environmental impacts.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP30 The exhibits in the draft EIS (aerial photos) in Springfield area were too small of a scale to be beneficial to 

someone wanting to determine details. Scale probably should have been 1"=100' and controlled 

distribution. Also there wasn't enough roadway detail at 11th and Ridgely and at N Grand Ave. over the 

N.S.R.R. People who have businesses along N Grand were confused as to what was going to happen to 

them. My Name is ken lazar, a retired IDOT engineer. My last four years at IDOT, 1996 to 1999, were 

involved in writing IDOT's new design and environmental manual. I was the principal there on 17 chapters 

which involved geometric design features such as horizontal alignment, vertical alignment, cross section 

design, intersection design, interchange design, sight distance requirements, and the safety of my 

proposed design features. In reviewing the design features of proposed road relocations for alternative 2A, 

I have the following comments: 1) The proposal relocation of 11th street at Ridgely ave. would appear to 

have some sight distance problems for East bound traffic on Ridgely not being able to see traffic crossing 

back and forth on 11th street. The crest V.C would be over the RR tracks just before the 11th street 

intersection and resulting in limited anticipatory SD. The intersection grade on eastbound Ridgely would 

appear to be quite steep, probably 5%, and would cause problems stopping under icy conditions for cars, 

taxi vans,and semis going east on Ridgely. Therefore, the eastbound grade east of 11th should not be any 

greater than 3% through the intersection area. In looking at the sketch of 11th street, it appears the design 

has curves butting right up to the edge of Ridgely ave. Intersection approaches should always be designed 

with a least 50 feet of tangent from the edge of the crossroad back to the beginning of a curve. With this 

being a city street, I would assume that the cross-section of the curves would be a normal crown. Every 

effort should be made with my intersection design to not have super elevation going through the 

intersection. With this intersection being used by semis, the right turn radii should be designed for at least 

a WB-50 design. This intersection will be up on a high hill so there should be consideration of using 

guardrail in all four quadrants. The approach grades on 11th St. should probably be no greater than 3% for 

at least 75 feet from the edges of Ridgely ave. 2) On exhibit 5-1B of volume II, I noticed that converse ave. 

does not show a grade separation. Converse Ave. is a main east west street in this part of town and the 

lack of a grade separation would appear to be a major problem for motorists. This would cause traffic to go 

to N. Grand ave. and create more turning movements at 9th, 11th, and 15th. In looking over the RR 

alignment of alternative 2A from black Ave to enterprise. I didn't see an alternative which examined a 

profile design which would have assumed that the tracks were cut into the ground by 15 to 20 feet. Such a 

design would easily allow a bridge to developed on Converse ave. over the railroad. Also, such a design 

would reduce the visual impact and noise levels for the lanphier H.S. complex. It would also allow for a 

better design to carry N. Grand Ave. over the railroad. I saw such a design alternative of depressing the 

railroad below the surrounding elevations in Reno, Nevada. It looked quite nice and there was hardly any 

noticeable noise as the freight trains went through downtown Reno. 4) In reviewing exhibit 5-1J, I noticed 

that a major grade separation is proposed for carrying N Grand ave. over the existing N.S.R.R. The grades 

on this overpass should probably be no greater than 3 to 3.5% for this major east-west arterial. Also, I 

noticed that a horizontal curve is shown on the east side of the proposed overpass. It has been IDOT policy 

since 2001 (New Manual) that horizontal curves not be designed near the ends of a bridge. This is 

recommended so that super elevation transition doe not fall onto the bridge approach slabs not onto the 

bridge itself. Using this criteria eliminates difficult construction, unsightly lines on the bridge parapet walls, 

and eliminates any adverse forces on vehicles as they start to cross a bridge. I would assume that the H.C. 

would be designed with normal crown. Also I would assume this bridge cross-section would be for 4 lanes 

with no median and sidewalks designed on each side of the bridge. Would this embankment be designed 

like clear lake ave. with reinforced earth walls? Our house is approximately 200 feet from the existing U. P. 

Tracks Before the new rail and concrete ties were installed, we could always feel the vibration of freight 

trains going by the house. Now that the new rail and concrete ties have been installed, we no longer feel 

any vibration and the noise also seems to be less with the new rail in place.

The intersection at 11th and Ridgley will be four-way stop controlled. This will alleviate 

concern about eastbound traffic seeing cross traffic on 11th. The maximum grade on 

Ridgley at the tracks will be approximately 2.6%. The 200' minimum required sight 

distance for the 30 MPH design speed will be provided by the proposed profiles on Ridgley 

and 11th. Since 11th Street will not be superelevated, the need for a tangent section 

approaching the intersection is reduced. Introducing a tangent section would increase the 

number of residential displacements. Local roads policy indicates that intersection radii 

should be set to accommodate a WB-50 design vehicle. The AASHTO Roadside Design 

Guide will be used to determine the need for guardrail at this location. The alternative of 

depressing the track through the city was evaluated during preliminary screening and was 

eliminated due to high cost and construction staging issues. The proposed grade for the 

North Grand Avenue overpass at the NS is 5.00%. This is less than the 8% maximum in the 

Local Roads Manual. North Grand Avenue will be designed with a normal crown. A portion 

of the overpass approaches will be on earth embankment and a portion supported by 

mechanically stabilized earth walls. 

Tier 2 Suggested Change Lazar, Ken 
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

intersection and resulting in limited anticipatory SD. The intersection grade on eastbound Ridgely would 

appear to be quite steep, probably 5%, and would cause problems stopping under icy conditions for cars, 

taxi vans,and semis going east on Ridgely. Therefore, the eastbound grade east of 11th should not be any 

greater than 3% through the intersection area. In looking at the sketch of 11th street, it appears the design 

has curves butting right up to the edge of Ridgely ave. Intersection approaches should always be designed 

with a least 50 feet of tangent from the edge of the crossroad back to the beginning of a curve. With this 

being a city street, I would assume that the cross-section of the curves would be a normal crown. Every 

effort should be made with my intersection design to not have super elevation going through the 

intersection. With this intersection being used by semis, the right turn radii should be designed for at least 

a WB-50 design. This intersection will be up on a high hill so there should be consideration of using 

guardrail in all four quadrants. The approach grades on 11th St. should probably be no greater than 3% for 

at least 75 feet from the edges of Ridgely ave. 2) On exhibit 5-1B of volume II, I noticed that converse ave. 

does not show a grade separation. Converse Ave. is a main east west street in this part of town and the 

lack of a grade separation would appear to be a major problem for motorists. This would cause traffic to go 

to N. Grand ave. and create more turning movements at 9th, 11th, and 15th. In looking over the RR 

alignment of alternative 2A from black Ave to enterprise. I didn't see an alternative which examined a 

profile design which would have assumed that the tracks were cut into the ground by 15 to 20 feet. Such a 

design would easily allow a bridge to developed on Converse ave. over the railroad. Also, such a design 

would reduce the visual impact and noise levels for the lanphier H.S. complex. It would also allow for a 

better design to carry N. Grand Ave. over the railroad. I saw such a design alternative of depressing the 

railroad below the surrounding elevations in Reno, Nevada. It looked quite nice and there was hardly any 

noticeable noise as the freight trains went through downtown Reno. 4) In reviewing exhibit 5-1J, I noticed 

that a major grade separation is proposed for carrying N Grand ave. over the existing N.S.R.R. The grades 

on this overpass should probably be no greater than 3 to 3.5% for this major east-west arterial. Also, I 

noticed that a horizontal curve is shown on the east side of the proposed overpass. It has been IDOT policy 

since 2001 (New Manual) that horizontal curves not be designed near the ends of a bridge. This is 

recommended so that super elevation transition doe not fall onto the bridge approach slabs not onto the 

bridge itself. Using this criteria eliminates difficult construction, unsightly lines on the bridge parapet walls, 

and eliminates any adverse forces on vehicles as they start to cross a bridge. I would assume that the H.C. 

would be designed with normal crown. Also I would assume this bridge cross-section would be for 4 lanes 

with no median and sidewalks designed on each side of the bridge. Would this embankment be designed 

like clear lake ave. with reinforced earth walls? Our house is approximately 200 feet from the existing U. P. 

Tracks Before the new rail and concrete ties were installed, we could always feel the vibration of freight 

trains going by the house. Now that the new rail and concrete ties have been installed, we no longer feel 

any vibration and the noise also seems to be less with the new rail in place.

Local Roads Manual. North Grand Avenue will be designed with a normal crown. A portion 

of the overpass approaches will be on earth embankment and a portion supported by 

mechanically stabilized earth walls. 
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP31 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Vinson, Larry Largest mistake I've ever seen for the betterment of Springfield. Creates too much cost, trashes our city 

with closed streets, over/underpasses, uproots too many families and businesses, destroys east to west 

traffic right-of-ways, separates our city. Build underground through street corridor two tracks from 

approximately Ridge Avenue to Iles Avenue or @ best choices. Please see attachment. (Attachment) I 

have read all info I could find and have attended several meetings on this subject and have concluded 

there has not been enough facts reported for all the benefits to be received by installing a two-track 

system totally underground along the 3rd Street corridor. The system should not be just a ditch but be 

totally buried from north to south underground all the way (practical) through our city. This system should 

be cost-effective if compared to all other studies, and the condition of our city is to be left in ditch systems 

that were tried early on would not be acceptable to meet today's environmental demands and were a 

dumping place for everything our public wanted to get rid of. Larger cities have been locating their 

systems underground for many years and some day it will have to be done here. We may never have 

another opportunity to "do it right" like we have now. Some of the rewarding benefits that would be 

gained; would not divide our city from east to west, but would enhance both sides. Should satisfy the 

medical industry, minimize vibration to an acceptable level. Think about this -- eliminate all railroad 

noises, pollutions, and unsightly railroad traffic. NO CROSS TOWN SURFACE TRAFFIC DELAYS. All streets 

open 24/ for emergency vehicles, and general traffic would be safer and flow better. The space gained 

above this tunnel could have many uses. 4/ lanes of auto, only roadways, commercial businesses, green 

areas, etc., etc. Costs of building over/underpasses avoided. There could be no division of populations and 

every one in our beautiful city could remain happy and comfortable with our permanently resolved great 

high-speed rail system. Thank you. 

The proposed alternative was considered in the preliminary screening phase and was 

eliminated because of high cost and construction staging issues. It did not reduce 

displacements or other environmental impacts and provided only small improvements in 

safety and congestion relief relative to other alternatives. 

SP32 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Nekritz, Elaine I would very much like to see the passenger station stay in downtown Springfield. The value in passenger 

rail service is the ability to travel downtown to downtown. The 10th Street alignment will diminish the 

desirability of the route.

Alternatives that keep passenger traffic on 3rd Street and continue to utilize the existing 

Amtrak station were considered in preliminary screening, and some were carried forward 

for detailed study. It was determined that alternative 2A, which places passenger trains 

on 10th Street best achieves the project purpose and need at the lowest cost with the 

fewest impact.

SP33 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Anonymous, 

FCCG

Mostly designs and no explanation for them. Still doesn't indicate where the high-speed rail tracks will be, 

3rd Street or where. 3rd Street is my preference.

The recommended alternative is to relocate the high-speed trains to 10th Street.

SP34 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Anonymous, I support plan 2B for 10th Street. I like the addition of underpasses so trains can keep moving and so can 

vehicle traffic. 

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP35 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Kriel, Jack 

Enos Park N 

Improvement Assoc.

Would like to see underground tracks despite the cost. Doing the underground version is much cheaper 

today than doing it 10-20-50 years from now. The infrastructure is less intense than it would be 20-50 

years from now. I favor the 10th Street 2A option. 

This alternative was considered during preliminary screening and was eliminated due to 

the high cost of construction and problems associated with drainage and with maintaining 

rail traffic during construction. The 10th Street 2A option is the preferred alternative.

SP36 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Blazis, Jack W. Why? So many questions why? Is this really good for Springfield? Will people use this project? Are you 

throwing money away? I can't believe it's cheaper to go through Springfield. I hope and pray this project is 

looked at very carefully. Matt Heyen was very helpful.

The purpose and need for the project as well as a discussion regarding alternatives 

eliminated is included in the final EIS. The alternatives considered during preliminary 

screening included alternatives that relocated all rail traffic outside of the City. These 

alternatives were at least three times the cost of the preferred alternative and were 

eliminated. The preferred alternative will reduce congestion, vehicle delays, accidents and 

noise and will reduce the barrier effects of the railroads on the community.

SP37 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Pickering, Margaret 1) the information is not complete. Like most government projects you get the sugar coating and reality 

doesn't come until it's too late to change. 2) The cost to taxpayers is way out of line simply to cut a few 

minutes off travel time. 3) Instead of speed we all need to slow down and realize what damage we are 

doing to the earth and when it's done, what next?

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP38 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Eaton, Joseph What do we need high speed rail service for? As far as I’m concerned you can build around Springfield and 

take all noise from the railroads there. The railroads should have to pay all costs of this project.

The purpose and need for the project is included in the final EIS.

SP39 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Blackwell, Arthur & 

Eve 

If there is money available, why can the trains not run around the city instead of through it. This is not 

conducive to family enrichment, nor did it help pull the city together. The east side will be further 

segregated. My family invested in the community by purchasing property and pouring into the community 

financially. What value will be left in my property with constant train travel across the street. The claim 

that was originally put forth was that this was about high-speed rail. Yet, the majority of the trains moved 

will be freight trains. How is this helping my community or helping our children. Our investment and the 

value we try to build up comes to nothing if you snatch our land or that of our neighbors. With or without 

horns, trains are loud, dirty and disruptive. No one will pay a lot to live across from one.

Relocating trains outside of the city was a preliminary screening alternative. It was 

eliminated because of high cost and railroad opposition. 

SP40 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Anonymous, 

Neighborhood 

Association

Basically, I see (the meeting) as a requirement by statute to comply with the information or to comply with 

what's legally required, and I say that because I am concerned with all of the input that has been given. It 

seemed to have very little impact in changing the decision. The decision had already been made by the 

people in authority, by the people making the decision. And as a resident of Randall Court, which is very 

close to the Ash Street grade separation, we will be, the people in that neighborhood, will be directly 

impacted both with the grade separation in terms of a problem that could be created with the lack of 

proper drainage, which is a common problem in the city in other areas where we have grade separation, 

but there's also a problem with the upper level in terms of the impact it is going to have on properties 

located close and near that particular area, and it is going to have an adverse impact on the aesthetics and 

could very well deter the easement going in and out of Randall Court on Ash Street because of the length 

that that separation is going to reach. So I see this as having a very negative impact in that area and not 

going to be beneficial to the residents who live there, which consists of a large number of senior citizens. 

They also are going to be locked into their properties, many too old to consider new mortgages, and they 

are going to be stuck in the area whether or not they like the outcome of the grade separation or the 

problem that I think would be created. So I see it as having an adverse impact on the entire area, and we 

are strongly opposed to the grade separation. You're also going to be closing other streets in that 

immediate area on Wirt Street which is the street next to the railroad track on 19th street. So I have a real 

problem with it, and I also am concerned about this information just appearing on the grade separation for 

Ash and 19th Street. I wonder why this information was not made available earlier so we could have 

addressed it, but I also believe there needs to be a meeting with the people in that area so they can have a 

clear understanding as to what is going to take place, the direct impact it's going to have, and they would 

be able to ask and get answers to questions that they have regarding this project. So those are some of 

my concerns, and as you can tell, I'm not very happy so far with how this is taking place.

Input from the advisory group meeting and from the public meetings, along with 

comments received from the public on the project website, were an integral part of the 

study process. They assisted the study team in developing the purpose and need, 

identifying and screening alternatives and, and selecting the alternative that best achieves 

the project purpose and need at the lowest cost and impacts. The recommended 

alternative will not cause an increase in rail traffic on 19th Street adjacent to Randall 

Court. The underpass at Ash Street will eliminate traffic delays and noise at that crossing. 

It should also reduce the difficulty in accessing Ash Street from Randall Court when trains 

are present since they will no longer block the crossing. The Ash Street underpass has 

been shown as a part of the project at all of the public meetings and at the public hearing. 

A land acquisition public meeting will be held during the next phase of the project. 

Congress passed the Uniform Relocation dn Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act 

of 1970 and amended it in 1987 to provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons 

displaced by projects such as this one. The law provides not only for just compensation 

but also for relocation assistance to displaced persons.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP41 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Anonymous, 

Faith Coalition for the 

Common Good

Relocating trains outside of the city was a preliminary screening alternative. It was 

eliminated because of high cost and railroad opposition. 

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons displaced by projects such as this 

one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance for displaced persons. 

I think still the best alternative was to move the lines outside of the city, and I'm still worried as to 

whether the stakeholders will carry out the community benefit agreement which had to do with 

relocation and whether or not citizens would be justly compensated for their property. Assessed value 

versus the amount of money it will take to rebuild their homes is a still critical question. The question of 

local jobs is still out there. We heard the governor talking about a thousand jobs and then turn around and 

say there won't be any because the railroad is putting in the rail. Well, where are the jobs going to be at? 

How soon will that information be available to people so we won't get caught short and folks come in from 

Nebraska and Kansas. We need jobs here in Springfield. And the third thing has to do with training 

programs. We have youth that are not being trained. It seems to me that our educational institutions and 

IDOT and everyone else in this community federation that is supposedly so wonderful here in Springfield 

would be planning now in terms of how to train people for these job opportunities. And about safety and 

noise abatement, I hope this time it doesn't become a joke like it was years ago. Nothing was done except 

close our streets off and increase the speed of the trains on the Nineteenth Street track, and now they're 

talking about doing underpasses, overpasses, which is good for the freight business but it doesn't do a 

doggone thing for the neighborhoods and the people who have to live around trains. And then on the 

question of this whole beautification process, it seems to be like singing Dixie almost because no one 

really seems to be paying attention to that, so we get the same old things that are going on now on the 

tracks again which is nothing. It's nothing but weeds and hot rocks, you know. And on the question of 

safety, I'd like to see the planners and stakeholders do a definite plan on hazardous material. Where is the 

safety there? Are they going to have something where they blow whistles and tell us when something 

hazardous is coming through our community, especially on the Nineteenth Street track. I haven't got over 

that yet. So all of those kind of things are big issues. There are seven, I can't remember them all because I 

get too emotional when I talk about the other ones, and we paid all this money or you guys did, the 

taxpayers did, and nothing is happening with us. Nothing is happening. On Nineteenth Street when they 

first started, the first thing they say, oh, we're going to put the Nineteenth Street and the Tenth Street and 

the Third Street all together in a corridor, and now they've got three separate corridors again -- Third 

Street, Tenth Street and Nineteenth Street. And I still don't believe that Union Pacific is going to give up 

Third Street corridor. That's not good business I don't think from their standpoint, but time will tell. It'll 

take another 20 years. I probably won't be here to see all this come to fruition, but that doesn't relieve me 

as a responsible citizen to speak up now, and that's what I'm doing. Of all that I have said, probably the 

most significant is how citizens will be compensated for their property. In my neighborhood association, 

90 percent of us are senior citizens. I just look like I'm young. And the critical question is if our property, if 

imminent domain takes our property, will we be able to afford to rebuild somewhere else. So it's not so 

much the question of relocation as it is relocating at assessed value. It's relocation with no funding to 

rebuild. So that whole law needs to be changed because it's not just -- you know, if I have a $40,000 cost 

assessed valuation, that doesn't mean they're going to give me $40,000, and I would be hard-pressed to be 

able to build a new home or find a suitable housing at that price. Of course, the railroad has been making 

out like that since they first started, you know, taking people's property and not justly compensating them 

for it. That's all I have to say.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP42 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Howell, Ronald E. The Passenger rail traffic (Amtrak) and the freight rail traffic should be kept completely separate. 3rd street 

for Amtrak - preserves aesthetics of city, offers best ambience for tourists, far, far safer for all passenger 

employees, citizens, than dangerous crime - ridden social services alley known as 9-11th, Madison to 

capitol. 10th street for freight traffic - go ahead and build a "berlin wall," it may help reduce crime by 

separating homeless, drug-addicted, abortion providers, released felons, and recovering alcoholics for 

women and children, seniors, handicapped, who justifiably expect safe, clean traveling services.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP43 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Anonymous, The projected number of freight trains will be coming through Springfield even under the 

No-Build Alternative. Addressing the increase in rail traffic was one reason for the 

Springfield study. Safety was one on the key elements of the project purpose and need 

identified early in the study process. It was determined that historically the greatest 

safety risk was from collisions between vehicles and trains. Alternatives were developed 

with a goal of reducing these vehicle/train crashes . The preferred alternative (2A) is the 

most effecting at reducing these accidents while minimizing costs and impacts. Train 

derailments were considered in the analysis and it was determined that routing rail traffic 

around the City would increase the length of track and train-miles traveled thereby 

increasing the possibility of derailments in the area. Relocating trains outside of the city 

was a preliminary screening alternative. It was eliminated because of high cost, 

environmental impacts and railroad opposition. The preferred alternative includes 

construction of a series of overpasses and underpasses on 10th and 19th Streets to 

reduce the barrier effect that these two corridors create in the community.

The morning news reported another freight train derailment of twenty grain cars outside a community. 

Several weeks ago several fuel tankers were derailed and overturned within a residential community. 

Expansion of the rails due to temperature was the apparent cause. Rail accidents are not weekly 

occurrences, but can and will continue. The IDOT study is examining the environmental and (i presume) 

the SAFETY wisdom of committing the future of Springfield to accept the ultimate subdivision of the city by 

concentrating the north/south rail traffic on a rail corridor that has been studied and projected to become 

a volume of more that sixty (60+) trains each day (24/7) through the central business district, adjacent to 

the medical/ hospital complex and residential neighborhoods. The public information media reported a 

projected future traffic of more than forty freight trains with a potential capacity of transporting a hundred 

and more freight cars... box cars, fuel and toxic chemical and waste tankers, flat be and open material 

freight cars. Not unusual to be a mile long string of freight containers passing through the city every thirty 

minutes... each twenty four hours, seven days a week! They are intended to pass through (at a reduced 

speed of 40 mph) since the capitol city has no industry that is utilizing the railroad for material delivery or 

service. In other words, the intention of physically and permanently dividing and devastating (my word) 

our city by accommodating a railroad industry without any benefit to the community is irresponsible... for 

the future of the community and railroad. Maintaining the level grades for the railroad is accomplished by 

the construction of over and under passes at intervals while other streets and pedestrian ways are closed 

for safety. An inconvenience at best, but a physical and chasm that is dedicated to posterity. The projected 

frequency of the through freight schedules and the potential safety hazards within the community are 

difficult to accept... since the millions of dollars that must be spent to accommodate this effort is tax payer 

expense and (to my understanding) without investment by the UP except for the installation of the rails 

and other railroad devices and rail maintenance. The tenth street proposed consolidated rail traffic 

corridor is intended to accommodate projected rail traffic of more than a dozen trains each day stopping 

to provide passenger service. The relocation of passenger train traffic onto the existing 10th street corridor 

at the projected future frequency is reasonable, desirable, and provides benefits to the community in more 

centrally locating the traveling passenger to the city commercial center. The misnomer "High speed rail" 

passenger traffic between the distant cities of Chicago and St. Louis can be accomplished as a minimum 

cost within the existing 10th street corridor. The over and under passes are in place and the community 

retains the opportunity to integrate the existing commercial and residential properties, with a welcome 

relief from a perpetual string of endless freight trains that are projected in the reports for the future freight 

traffic through Springfield! Is apparent that any solution that anticipates the freight hauling through 

(without stopping) is following the stimulus money and not more difficult and expensive, but obvious, 

responsible decision of providing a shunt around Springfield, connecting the UP existing rail corridor North 

and South of Springfield. Passenger trains are not miniature freight trains... they only have in common... 

steel rails! your recommendation in favor of future generations would be courageous but correct. GO IDOT
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP44 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Janeway, Thomas H. The best for long run would be to move all of train traffic 11 miles east of town as was discussed in late 

1960's (in the buffalo area). #1 first thing to do would be to do away with third street line. This has been on 

table since 1920s. 

The 3rd Street tracks will be relocated as part of the preferred alternative (2A). Relocating 

trains outside of the city was a preliminary screening alternative. It was eliminated 

because of high cost, environmental impacts in the wetland and floodplain areas east of 

the City, and railroad opposition. 

SP45 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP46 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Reiss, Christopher I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

projected future traffic of more than forty freight trains with a potential capacity of transporting a hundred 

and more freight cars... box cars, fuel and toxic chemical and waste tankers, flat be and open material 

freight cars. Not unusual to be a mile long string of freight containers passing through the city every thirty 

minutes... each twenty four hours, seven days a week! They are intended to pass through (at a reduced 

speed of 40 mph) since the capitol city has no industry that is utilizing the railroad for material delivery or 

service. In other words, the intention of physically and permanently dividing and devastating (my word) 

our city by accommodating a railroad industry without any benefit to the community is irresponsible... for 

the future of the community and railroad. Maintaining the level grades for the railroad is accomplished by 

the construction of over and under passes at intervals while other streets and pedestrian ways are closed 

for safety. An inconvenience at best, but a physical and chasm that is dedicated to posterity. The projected 

frequency of the through freight schedules and the potential safety hazards within the community are 

difficult to accept... since the millions of dollars that must be spent to accommodate this effort is tax payer 

expense and (to my understanding) without investment by the UP except for the installation of the rails 

and other railroad devices and rail maintenance. The tenth street proposed consolidated rail traffic 

corridor is intended to accommodate projected rail traffic of more than a dozen trains each day stopping 

to provide passenger service. The relocation of passenger train traffic onto the existing 10th street corridor 

at the projected future frequency is reasonable, desirable, and provides benefits to the community in more 

centrally locating the traveling passenger to the city commercial center. The misnomer "High speed rail" 

passenger traffic between the distant cities of Chicago and St. Louis can be accomplished as a minimum 

cost within the existing 10th street corridor. The over and under passes are in place and the community 

retains the opportunity to integrate the existing commercial and residential properties, with a welcome 

relief from a perpetual string of endless freight trains that are projected in the reports for the future freight 

traffic through Springfield! Is apparent that any solution that anticipates the freight hauling through 

(without stopping) is following the stimulus money and not more difficult and expensive, but obvious, 

responsible decision of providing a shunt around Springfield, connecting the UP existing rail corridor North 

and South of Springfield. Passenger trains are not miniature freight trains... they only have in common... 

steel rails! your recommendation in favor of future generations would be courageous but correct. GO IDOT
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP47 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Reuben, Ted I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP48 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 3rd street is a poor choice. 10th streets is best. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP49 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Troehler, Scott Springfield Rail Consolidation: Increased rail traffic down the 3rd street corridor would have a long term 

negative impact on the health and vitality of our growing downtown, and would seriously inhibit future 

growth in our central business district. I support the 10th street option.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP50 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stoldt, Charles Was hopeful testimony was to be given. Move tracks to 10th street. Where will money come from? Do not 

accept premise of high speed rail i.e. cost and benefits

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP51 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Schumacher, Melvin

Neighborhood 

Association

I'm Melvin Kevin Schumacher. I'm a resident of Springfield at 200 South Grand Avenue East, so this is 

going to impact me with the overpass/underpass on 19th Street at Wirt and McCreery and South Grand. 

I'm all for the high-speed rail expansion. I think the project 2A is a good project, and we need to move 

forward as soon as possible. I hate to see federal dollars just going to waste when they could help our 

community like that. I'm all for this project, and being a resident, I know other residents that are for the 

project also.

The preferred alternative includes an underpass at the 19th Street corridor and South 

Grand Avenue. This underpass will improve safety and reduce noise and delays. It will 

also require that Wirt and McCreery Streets be closed at South Grand Avenue.

SP52 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sandstrom, Steward I fully support Alternative 2A. The sooner the better-especially land acquisition. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP53 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 10th street is the correct alternative. Hopefully you are openly discussing land acquisition with home 

owners. Could have had more staff at maps. Seems like there was a smaller staff of professionals. 

Springfield citizens I have talked to are excited about the project getting underway. Will be great for all 

parts of town. Hopefully IDOT will not drag their feet.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP54 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Wendler, RN, PHD, M. 

Cecilia 

Work (MMC)

Option 2A is the best alternative - Safety, prevent delays of traffic (most importantly into the E.R.s of the 

two hospitals), aesthetically, protect cultural sites, protect integrity of downtown Springfield. Thank you, 

Union Pacific, for considering the long-term impact of this decision on our hometown. Citizens know you 

have the power to do whatever. Please choose 2A as your legacy gift to the people of Springfield. Thank 

you for a fabulous hearing "Set-up" - maximizes input and dialogue.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP55 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dillivou, Sara We have attended most if not all of these meetings. We support the 10th Street alternative. Initially we 

thought the entire process was lip service. We have been encouraged that the process has been much 

more than that. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP56 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sims, E. Norman I wish to support the alternative of choice, Alternative 2A, identified in the Springfield phase II draft EIS. We 

believe that the alternative will improve traffic flow throughout the area in comparison with the other 

alternatives considered, is the best able to maintain community character and support further 

redevelopment in the downtown, and addresses a number of significant health and safety issues. We 

encourage the adoption of alternative 2A for the Springfield segment.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP57 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 

Downtown Springfield 

Inc.

Please choose the 2A alternative. Any other option would set revitalization back 30 years. Mitigation is 

much easier with 2A option. Historic sites will not be negatively impacted if 2A is chosen.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP58 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, The increase in UP and other traffic through Springfield will have a significant negative impact on both 

downtown Springfield and safety for police, fire department, etc., although the ideal would be to move all 

rail traffic outside the city except for Amtrak. The choice of option 2A is the best alternative when 

including the costs. I'm thankful that the planning has been done before. UP adds to the rail traffic. The 

planning is for nothing if the government bodies involved don't take steps quickly to approve and fund the 

project. Thank you for the opportunity to comment. 

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP59 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Barber, Charlie I am in favor of the 10th street corridor if it eliminates a number of at grade crossings. Would have more 

under and over passes that would be safer and have fewer traffic delays. It could have a no train horn quite 

zone. It would increase economic development in downtown, the medical district and the east side of 

Springfield with the Amtrak station on the East side of the corridor and multi-modal center on the west 

side. There is no room for a multi-modal center on 3rd. The eastside of Springfield desperately needs the 

economic development it would bring. Increased rail freight traffic on 3rd would create a barrier wall of 

trains on 3rd effectively cutting Springfield in half into an east Springfield and a west Springfield. Ruin 

historic sites like the Dana-Thomas house and blight development in downtown Springfield. I urge you to 

adopt the 10th street corridor.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP60 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support the Tenth Street solution, and I want the record to reflect that. I strongly support the Tenth 

Street solution with the 2A alternative because I believe that it will be great for the City of Springfield, 

particularly for the future of the City of Springfield. I have lived in Springfield all my life. I'm almost 70 

years old, and I've seen a lot of things come and go including this issue, and we've never really resolved it. 

We have an opportunity to right now, and I believe that we ought to seize the moment because I believe 

the moment means so much to the community and vice versa. It will have a tremendous drain on our 

community if we don't do it this time. I believe that the city will be safer. I believe that the city will be less 

divisive in terms of black, white, rich, poor. I believe that all kinds of economic development opportunities 

will flow from having this happen. I believe the city will be quieter. I believe the city will be enriched with 

all kinds of possibilities that emanate from a new multimodal center, a new set of tracks for Tenth Street, 

less kinds of activities and maybe no activity on Third Street, and one day maybe no 19th Street tracks. 

One day this project may result in Springfield only having one rail corridor running through the city rather 

than three, which it does presently and it has forever. So for all of those reasons, I support the Tenth Street 

solution. Hope and pray that it happens.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP61 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I am in favor of the proposed alternative for several reasons. I live on 4th Street and own my own home. 

The number of freight traffic and Amtrak trains has increased considerably since I purchased in 1992. It is 

very noisy, disruptive, and causes me many traffic delays. I do not want increased train traffic through 

downtown or through the medical district. It would ruin the Dana Thomas House and my place of 

employment, The Sangamon Club. Shifting train traffic to 10th makes sense based upon the study 

recommendations and would eliminate train horn blowing. It would increase safety. 

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP62 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dillavou, David W. 

NSA/A

The 10th Street corridor has the least negative impact on the city and my neighborhood. It would not 

depress property values as the 3rd Street corridor would. 3rd Street would cause a horrible impact on 

many local merchants and healthcare facilities. The city visitors would be blocked from the capitol or 

museums if they had limited time to see both. Tourists are one of our main industries -- don't make it 

tougher on them.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP63 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support the recommended plan - 2A. It will preserve historic landmarks. It will preserve medical district. 

It will preserve downtown and state capitol. It will dovetail with the multimodal center. It will quiet the 

HORN BLASTS! And much more. (And we hope to see 19th Street consolidated to 10th in the future.) 

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP64 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support the recommendation to consolidate the 3rd street (Union Pacific) corridor to the 10th street 

corridor. This will keep the capitol area and downtown connected for tourism and business uses. Using the 

10th street corridor would allow for better overall planning for economic development and safety; as 

opposed to the likely approach at 3rd street of inserted over/under passes and walled-off streets. Please 

take this opportunity to keep Amtrak as a welcomed and valued member of our community by adopting 

the 2A option - Tier 2 Springfield High Speed Rail Improvement project. And let's convert the 3rd street 

tracks to a green space when the tracks move over. Hike/Bike or just a park.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP65 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Fulgenzi, Jeff I support alternative 2A. I am concerned about pedestrian traffic crossing the rail line in Sangamon county. 

Sherman needs an elevated pedestrian crossing. Sherman is growing rapidly with many young people in 

subdivisions on one side of tracks and schools and retail on the opposite side. Peoria road underpass is a 

major concern. 3rd street rail line many children and adult use overpass to safely cross Peoria road east to 

west and west to east - there needs to be a safe pedestrian crossing. Accommodations should be made 

that allows the abandoned 3rd line to move north beyond ridgely ave for Bike and pedestrian trail. i.e. not 

stop at converse.

Same response as SPIAG09

SP66 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support alternative 2A, 10th street consolidation. Springfield plan should consider pedestrian safety, rail 

upgrades on 10th and transit oriented development.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP67 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 

Radio

I believe the 10th street alternative to be a beneficial option and the best option. The 10th street 

alternative will reduce traffic congestion and ensure safety along 3rd street.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP68 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Riffey, Darrell and 

Sharon 

Inner City Older 

neighborhood 

Coalition member

There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety 

improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because the proposed plan will 

significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. This will also 

make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic development implications 

of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks will allow for increased 

investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and high wage professional jobs. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP69 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP70 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP71 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP72 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP73 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community. (12 Signatures)

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP74 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP75 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP76 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP77 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP78 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP79 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community. (10 signatures)

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP80 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and 

more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because 

the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade 

separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks 

will allows for increased investment that will grow our medical district and create construction and highwage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community. (14 Signatures)

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP81 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Larymon, Cathy I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP82 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Laughlin, Charles I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP83 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Nelson, Deandra M. I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP84 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Spa, Mathew I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP85 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hermty, Christine I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP86 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, John I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP87 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Jeff I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP88 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ferry, Arlene I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP89 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Coffman, Mona I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP90 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Judith I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP91 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Jump, Kris & Laura I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP92 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hornshaw, Elena I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP93 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hornshaw, Thomas I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP94 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Petherman, Cynthia I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP95 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Carteau, Robert I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP96 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Pine, Christine I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT's 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's 

residents and visitors, because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our medical district and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP97 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anderson, Mark My involvement with this Springfield Corridor alternative process began in the summer of 2009. I heartily 

support the Hanson/IDOT study that concludes Alternative 2A moving RR tracks from 3rd street to 10th 

street - making that corridor a multi-modal hub for the city. It benefits the medical business, government, 

and the average citizen of Springfield. I understand this will be a many year progression of events. I believe 

in talking with alderman Doris Turner and Gail Simpson that the majority of people east of 10th street are 

also in favor of alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP98 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Eagen, Charles I think 10th street is the best route for Springfield. The sooner the better. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP99 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Walk, Sheila 

Neighborhood 

Association

It has taken a long time for the city, IDOT, citizens, et al., to come to the conclusion I formed long ago. 

Consolidate rail traffic on the 10th Street corridor - what now is known as Alternative 2A. For the city, the 

medical district, residents, tourism, Alternative 2A = then build a taxi/bus/train station. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP100 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dahl, Jenni From the plans I saw, I thought 2A would be best for our city. (No Need to Respond, but here is my contact 

information.)

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP101 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Puglia, Alfred F. I am so please to see the logical choice is the best choice. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP102 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Maler, Linda I urge IDOT to consider alternative 2A Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP103 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 

Springfield Chamber 

of Commerce

I support alternative 2A for Springfield best improvement proposed in my lifetime in Springfield Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP104 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, City of Springfield alternative: 10th Street clear alternative. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP105 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I favor alternative 2A (10th street corridor) for Springfield. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP106 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Zahrn, Tim I support the consolidation to 10th street as shown in alternative 2A of the draft EIS. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP107 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I fully support Alternative 2A as both a resident and frequent rail traveler. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP108 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stratton, Nicky I am in favor of the 10th street coordinator option - 2A it is the only solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP109 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I find the option of consolidating 10th street rail corridor very reasonable looking at the opportunities. I 

can present the overall city of Springfield. The alternative 2A should definitely be considered.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP110 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support option 2A Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP111 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP112 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 2A Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP113 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support 10th street. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP114 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Support 10th street corridor. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP115 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support 10th street. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP116 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I strongly support the 10th Street Plan, Plan 2A Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP117 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support Alternative 2A Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP118 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Huston, Jim I want to see 3rd street rail moved to 10th street. This consolidation is very important to the medical 

district, Enos Park, Downtown, historic buildings - the preservation and quality of life at the city's core.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP119 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dondaville, Leo 

Retired Civil Engineer, 

Community and 

citizen discussions

Adopt alternative 2A as best decision. Shut down 3rd street line. Other alternatives significantly damage 

the entire Springfield community. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP120 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 

Email

Must move all trains from 3rd street to tenth street. That is only alternative that allows sufficient space to 

mitigate vehicles and pedestrian traffic.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP121 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Jorgensen, Elmer Stay with the 10th street corridor! Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP122 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 10th street preferred Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP123 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Kuntz, Stephen P. In favor of the 10th street relocation! Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP124 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Nudo, Anthony I think the 10th street corridor is the best plan for the city of Springfield. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP125 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

O'Shea, David I favor the 10th street rail corridor alternative 2A. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP126 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Butt, David I support alternative 2A through Springfield. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP127 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hayes, John I am in favor of the 10th street corridor. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP128 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I am in favor of the 10th street corridor. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP129 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Money-wise Springfield 2A appears most logical. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP130 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Meyers, John 

Rally

After examining the proposed alternatives, 2A appears to be the most feasible in terms of allowing an 

overall cohesiveness to the fabric of the Springfield area. The alternative incorporates existing grade 

separation (Cook St., south grand ave. as examples). The proposed underpasses are better tools for 

preserving, if not enhancing, that fabric.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP131 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Johnson, Mitch I strongly support alternative 2A for all the reasons cited n the Tier 1 EIS thanks for the good work on this 

solution for Springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP132 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Begert, Daniel 

Place of work, 

regional planning 

commission

I believe that the selected 10th street corridor is the most beneficial to the city in terms of traffic 

amelioration and transit facilitation. Consolidating rail activity to the 10th street corridor will allow for the 

construction of a new multi-modal transit station there, which will bea great boom to the downtown area 

in terms of economic and housing development.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP133 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I also think that the Tenth Street corridor is the best option for the City of Springfield. A lot of the houses 

where we live, the families have lost their homes in foreclosure, and really, the only properties that are 

occupied are the ones that are investment properties. So I don't feel there's going to be a lot of 

displacement of families on properties where our property is located at on Laurel Street. That's all I have to 

say.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP134 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I am strongly in favor of alternative 2A which is the Tenth Street option. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP135 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Higgins, Michael I am for EIS Alternative 2A. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP136 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, In favor of 10th Street in Springfield. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.
Comment 

No.

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Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP137 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Kent, CCIM, Doug 

Downtown Speed, 

Inc.

Proceed as Shown. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP138 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Combs, Diane 

Neighborhood

I support the EIS Alternative 2A. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP139 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Combs, Steve 

Neighborhood

As president of Enos Park Neighborhood Improvement Association, I'm supporting Alternative 2A to 

provide neighborhoods, tourism, and medical district the best alternative for future growth and 

development.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP140 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Musser, Dennis I support Alternative 2A Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP141 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Please, please, please move the tracks away from 3rd Street to Alternative 2A. Our future depends on it. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP142 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Coleman, Carol I support the recommended alternative in that it supports the greater good - protecting the economy of 

the city, the environmental appeal of the city to residents and tourists and the safety of all. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP143 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Shafer, Patricia 

Neighborhood Assoc. 

Email

10th Street I think makes the most sense for the city without splitting the city in half in a crucial area. 

There would be less displacement of homes using 10th Street. It would also bring improvement to the east 

side area. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP144 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Shumacher, Mevin I feel the project (2A) is worthwhile as a resident of the area. I look forward to the RR expansion along 

10th Street, 19th Street for better use of high-speed rail. I hope more questions can be answered in the 

near future regarding property acquisitions, minority business contractors, etc. Thank you. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP145 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Okbah, Anwar Own a gas station, 9th and Laurel. Will be displaced. Also own 1803, 180 and 180 Laurel. Wants to be 

displaced. Prefers Alternative 2A. Good luck and thanks. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP146 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Recommend 10th Street corridor. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP147 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I strongly support the recommended Alternative 2A to relocate rail traffic to the 10th Street corridor. 1) 

3rd Street alternatives would devastate downtown Springfield in terms of crossing delays and impacts in 

businesses. 2) Alternative 2A is consistent with the city of Springfield's long range plan to locate a 

multimodal system on the 10th Street corridor. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP148 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Kuetemeyer, Vicki I really prefer option 2A due to its impact on the medical district. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP149 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I agree with the recommended alternative. It makes the most sense for many important reasons: safety, 

congestion, noise, medical district, emergency vehicles, avoid devastation of downtown, which is vital to 

strength of our overall city and region.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP150 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support using the 10th street corridor as the trains are going through Springfield and would oppose using 

3rd street tracks. 10th street will be the safest route through the city.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP151 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Alternative 2A on 10th street is a win-win for all! Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP152 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Chraws, Sharon 

Enos Park Newsletter

I believe the proposed 10th street corridor is the best option for the city of Springfield. It is important NOT 

to interrupt the progress of the medical district and a transportation hub would be very beneficial for the 

city.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP153 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Chraws, Dennis 

Enos Park Newsletter

The 2A alternative is the best one for the city of Springfield. It takes the train out of the center of the city. It 

gives the medical district a chance to grow, enhances the residential neighborhoods, It's safer, less costly 

and is generally the best solutions.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
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Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP154 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Gihl, Tom The City needs the 10th street solution in place in order to grow economically. If the traffic is not moved 

off of 3rd street the medical district will not expand and they are now the 2nd largest employer. Without 

the economic medical engine Springfield will be put at a big disadvantage.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP155 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Johnson, Tom I endorse the Tenth Street decision wholeheartedly. Please do all you can to bring the alternative forward. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP156 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Rogers, Glen 

Home Owners Assn.

I have followed this project with great interest for 3 years and have studied the various 

proposals/alternatives in detail, and have concluded that alternative 2A would be best for Springfield for 

reasons too numerous to itemize here. The third (3rd) street railroad corridor through Springfield be 

consolidated on the tenth (10th) street corridor. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP157 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Steel, III, Wm. The relocation of all train traffic must be to the 10th street corridor. That is the only viable option for 

Springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP158 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, All train traffic through 10th street is the only option. Most logical. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP159 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I strongly favor proposal 2A. This would prevent the huge disruption in the medical district. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP160 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Albanen, Regina The Dana-Thomas House Foundation supports the movement of the 3rd street rail line to 10th street. This 

choice would protect the Dana-Thomas House which is a State Historic site that has been on the national 

register of historic places since 1976. As a work or internationally renowned architect Frank Llloyd Wright, 

is in an important representation of the collective architectural culture of Springfield, IL and the United 

States. As one noted architectural historian once stated - trains running through cities is a 19th century 

infrastructure that no longer fits the urban design of a 21st century city. The optimum solution would be to 

move the rail lines along I-55.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP161 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Mitchell, Harry As a strong supporter of the 10th street alternatives, I am please with the recommendation of alternative 

2A. I am very happy that the third street corridor was not recommended. This is a critical issue for our 

community 2A is the best solution available.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP162 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Collins, Josh I support Alternative 2A Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP163 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Vandiver, Marty I support option 2A for Springfield; shifting UP freight and Amtrak trains fro third street to tenth street and 

abandoning the third street corridor from near Ridgely Ave to south of Iles Ave. This action will protect the 

integrity of Springfield's downtown area, and major tourism sites, promote the growing medical district 

and assist with the revitalization of the Enos Park neighborhood. Additionally, abandoning the Third Street 

corridor has the potential for future development of this area as linear park for walking and cycling. The 

addition of this amenity would significantly help the older neighborhoods near the corridor in retaining 

residents.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP164 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I strongly prefer the 10th street corridor. The medical district is too important to the Springfield economy 

to discourage future development. The Dana-Thomas House is too fragile to allow excessive high-speed 

trains.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP165 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 

Neighborhood Group

My wife and I both support rail consolidation alternative 2A Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP166 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Cadigan, Daniel W. Thanks for giving the general public a chance to offer their comments and suggestions. I'm glad the FRA is 

leaning toward the 10th Street corridor

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP167 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Very informative. Hope the project moves forward Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.
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Springfield Public Hearing - August 15,2012, Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center - Ballroom, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SP168 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Consolidating train traffic would make traveling through downtown Springfield much easier. Furthermore, 

a building that houses the SMTD and train station would make it more convenient for the residents of 

Springfield, along with visitors to the city.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP169 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Kamholz, Doug While it is commonplace in politics to say this has our highest priority, and so does that and the other and a 

few more, the siting of our open (happily) growing rail traffic is, indeed, Springfield's most critical issue of 

the next half century. And just as having a train run through the middle of downtown was a pinnacle of 

progress in the 19th century, it has become a detriment in the 21st. So while we can do economic 

development around a 10th Street corridor, as a boon to the east side business, leaving the 3rd Street 

corridor in use will only inhibit growth of Springfield's medical community, our city's best hope for 

increased employment in the central city. The people, in the best way we use that term in our country, 

have had this one right from the get-go.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SP170 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I hope the high speed trains will be on tenth street and not on third street. Third street is too near the 

hospitals and downtown area.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP171 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, Can't wait for it to go through. Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.

SP172 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I think Springfield could use the high-speed rail. I think it's a good thing to have a high-speed rail come 

through here between 20 St. Louis and Chicago, and the fact they're using the Tenth Street corridor 

doesn't bother me. If I have to move, I move. It's not a big thing to me. So in general, I'm kind of a happy 

guy about the whole thing. My business is on Tenth Street so if I have to move the business, that's exciting 

to me. I've been there since '73 and the change is always nice. We'll see what happens.

Comment Noted - No contact information to reply to.
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ICC1 Tier 2 Section 5 

Environmental 

Consequences

ICC Section 5 (Environmental Consequences) - The drawing on page 5-15 is the same as the drawing on page 5-

12. It is assumed that the drawing on page 3-15 should show proposed improvements at Ash Street 

crossing of CN’s track (19th Street Corridor).

The correct exhibit has been included in the Final EIS.

ICC2 Tier 2 Section 4 Affected 

Environment

ICC The section has been revised as suggested.

The ICC also has the power to require the separation of grades at any proposed crossing where a public 

road, highway, street, sidewalk or pedestrian trail/bikeway may cross the tracks of a rail carrier. 

All warning signs or automatic warning devices installed at public crossings in Illinois must meet the 

minimum requirements of 92 Illinois Administrative Code 1535. In addition, all warning signs or warning 

devices installed at crossings must comply with FHWA’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices 

(MUTCD) (23 CFR 646.214[b][1[). The MUTCD provides standards for the types of warning devices that 

must be installed at all highway-rail grade crossings (FHWA 2007b).

Illinois Commerce Commission Transportation Bureau/Rail Safety Section

Section 4 (Affected Environment) of the Tier 2 DEIS document: Section 4.13.2.2 (Highway-Rail Crossing) 

indicates that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) 

have regulatory jurisdiction over safety at crossings, pursuant to the Highway Safety Act of 1966. In Illinois, 

the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has regulatory jurisdiction over safety at crossings. In addition, no 

mention is made of pedestrian-rail crossings or private highway-rail or pedestrian-rail crossings. This 

section needs to be rewritten to include that information. A suggested rewrite is noted below:

There are two kinds of crossings: highway-rail and pedestrian-rail. Where a roadway, sidewalk or 

pedestrian trail/bikeway crosses the track at the same elevation, this is called a “grade” crossing. Where a 

roadway, sidewalk or pedestrian trail/bikeway passes over the tracks via an “overpass” bridge structure or 

passes under a railroad track via an underpass bridge structure, these crossings are referred to as “grade 

separated.”

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and FRA have regulatory jurisdiction over safety at crossings, 

pursuant to the Highway Safety Act of 1966 (HSA) (23 USC 401 et seq.). The HSA governs the distribution of 

federal funds to states aimed at eliminating hazards at highway-rail grade crossings. USDOT has issued 

regulations that address crossing safety and provides federal funding for the installation and improvement 

of warning devices through state departments of transportation. In addition to federal oversight and 

funding, states also monitor crossings and, in many cases designate funding to complement the federal 

funds.

Jurisdiction over highway-rail grade crossings falls primarily to the states. This authority is set forth in the 

Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing Handbook (FHWA 2007a). Each state department of transportation is 

required to periodically inspect highway-rail grade crossings and to determine the adequacy of warning 

devices at each location, as well as to order safety improvements. USDOT oversees and approves the state 

determinations.

In Illinois, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has regulatory jurisdiction over safety at all public 

crossings (625 ILCS 5/18c-7401). No public road, highway, street, sidewalk or pedestrian trail/bikeway shall 

be constructed across the track of any rail carrier at grade, nor shall the track of any rail carrier be 

constructed across a public road, highway, street, sidewalk or pedestrian trail/bikeway at grade, without 

permission of the ICC.
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Illinois Commerce Commission Transportation Bureau/Rail Safety Section

FRA issued regulations under its railroad safety authority that impose minimum standards for highway-rail 

grade crossings (49 CFR 234‐236). FRA maintains information for each highway‐rail grade crossing based on 

information provided by the states and the railroads. FRA and FHWA coordinate research efforts related to 

highway-rail grade crossing collisions and provide guidance and solutions to problems.
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USEPA1 Tier 2 Section 2 

Purpose and Need

USEPA We recommend the Springfield Tier 2 DEIS Purpose and Need acknowledge the existing City of Springfield's 

planning goals of enhancing the City'S Medical Center Campus and establishing a 10th Street Multimodal 

Center. These factors are subsequently used in the alternatives analysis as arguments for dropping 

alternatives.

Text was added to section 2.2.2 to clarify this component of the purpose and need.

USEPA2 Tier 1

and

Tier 2

Exhibits USEPA We commend the DEIS for its many clear and helpful exhibits. However, some exhibits are too small or 

poorly labeled to convey adequate information, including but not limited to: Exhibits 6.1-6 and 6.1-8 and 

the Springfield Tier 2 DEIS Exhibits 4-4 and 4-5. The Tier 1 DEIS includes stringline diagrams, Exhibits 6.1-4, 

through 6.1-9, which are more appropriately put in a technical appendix, as they are not self-explanatory 

to the general reader. The Springfield Tier 2

DEIS exhibits in Section 5 are insufficiently labeled to clearly describe the alternatives.

Exhibits 4-4 and 4-5 in the Tier 2 Document have been enlarged and the labels adjusted to 

improve clarity. The exhibits 5-1 and 5-2 in Section 5 of the Tier 2 document only depict 

Alternative 2A (5-1) and any difference associated with Alternative 2B (5-2). A complete 

description of the preferred alternative is included in Section 5.22.

United States Environmental Protection Agency Region 5
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IHPA1 Tier 1 

and

Tier 2

Historical 

Structures

IHPA We have reviewed the referenced documents in accordance with our responsibilities pursuant to section 

106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. First, let me say that I really appreciate 

the time and effort that the Federal Railroad Administration, the Illinois Department of Transportation and 

the various consultants have devoted to this project to ensure cultural resources are fully considered 

during this planning process.

These documents adequately identify historic resources and possible effects that

will occur as a result of project implementation.

We understand that for the Phase I for the project as a whole from Joliet to the

Mississippi River, a literature search for historic properties was all that was performed but that a more in 

depth look at properties and affects to them will be

completed as a part of the Phase II Environmental Impact Statement.

For the Springfield Tier 2 portion, we concur that the loth Street Corridor will

have minimal adverse effects to historic properties as compared to the 3rd Street

corridor. We urge the loth Street Corridor be adopted as the preferred alternative.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

Illinois Historic Preservation Agency
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RAILROADS

RR1 Tier 2 Railroad Impacts Norfolk Southern Railway Company (NSRC) hereby submits comments on the Tier 2 project-level 

evaluation for the Springfield Rail Improvements Project (Springfield Project) Draft Environmental Impact 

Statement (DEIS) for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor Program. NSRC 

appreciates its involvement in the Technical Committee for the Springfield Project. The stated purpose of 

the Springfield Project is to enhance rail line capacity to accommodate and reduce the effects of the 

increasing high‐speed passenger and freight train traffic on the three north‐south rail corridors that pass 

through Springfield, which includes NSRC’s rail operations in the 10th Street corridor and its rail yard in 

Springfield. The purpose of the project includes reducing rail line effects by improving safety, reducing 

congestion, and enhancing community livability and supporting commercial activity. The preferred 

alternative for the Springfield Project will use NSRC property through the City of Springfield. As such, NSRC 

has an important interest in the project. As an initial matter, we note that the Springfield Project is not 

intended to increase freight capacity but is designed to accommodate high speed rail objectives. As such, 

NSRC should have no outlay of costs that are not fully reimbursed, including any tax liability and federal aid 

funding additives. As stated in the DEIS, NSRC currently operates approximately 16 freight trains per day in 

the 10th Street corridor, and projects future traffic will grow to 27 trains per day by 2030. Our 

infrastructure supports our freight operations. The Springfield Project must be the least disruptive to 

freight traffic as possible. Importantly, NSRC’s freight operations, both current and future, must not be 

negatively impacted by this project and appropriate infrastructure must be maintained or installed to 

accommodate the high speed rail in light of NSRC’s current and future operations. In particular, the 

Springfield Project will require a full relocation of NSRC’s existing Springfield yard. The funding and 

engineering for this relocation has appropriately been included within the project scope. However, the 

project currently estimates $17.3 million for this relocation, and it is unclear whether this estimate fully 

accounts for all associated costs. NSRC will require full preliminary engineering to confirm this estimate. In 

addition, prior to finalization of cost estimates and in order for NSRC to agree to the disruption of any of 

its facilities, including the Springfield yard and any other tracks or facilities, NSRC will need to determine 

the location, size, design and construction of the necessary facilities’ replacement. For safety and 

engineering adequacy reasons, NSRC construction standards will be necessary for all new and replacement 

construction. All of these items, as well as any property acquisition costs to locate the new facilities, must 

be part of the Springfield Project’s expense. Further, NSRC should not be required to participate in the 

funding of any grade separations that are part of the Springfield alternative or any other alternative that 

may be chosen. It is not clear whether the Springfield Project alternative includes a flyover south of 

Springfield (Iles/Hazel Dell) to separate Union Pacific (UP) and NS (UP over NSRC). That flyover, with NSRC 

at grade and UP over NSRC, must be included as part of the Springfield Project, funded as part of the 

project, and NSRC must agree with the location and design of such a flyover. This flyover is critical to 

ensuring that both passenger and freight trains are able to move freely on the route between Springfield 

and St. Louis. Finally, other necessary components in the Chicago to Joliet route must be specified in detail 

and NSRC must participate in determining, and agree to, the location and design of any new or relocated 

NSRC facilities. NSRC appreciates the Illinois Department of Transportation’s objectives of pursuing high 

speed rail while protecting freight capacity along these corridors. We look forward to continued 

cooperation in this endeavor.

The project team appreciates the cooperation that the NSRC has provided throughout the 

process and looks forward to continuing to work together as the project moves into 

design. The NSRC will be included on the Technical Committee that will be providing input 

during design and plan preparation for the Springfield Rail Improvement Project, and will 

have an opportunity to review and comment on all work affecting their facilities and 

operations. 

Harris, Jeff

Norfolk Southern
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SPIAG13 Tier 2 Environmental 

Justice

Joyce, Kathy I am very much concerned with social justice when displacement occurs. I feel minority living from the 

displaced area should be a priority. I also feel strongly that not simply "just compensation" be met by see a 

need for 'more than' "just compensation" be made to assist these people in adjusting to new situations 

and a better way of life. If we are making a better way of life for some who travel, those who sacrifice for 

that improvement need a better way of life as well. (as interpreted based on handwriting)

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for persons displace by projects such as this 

one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance for displaced persons. A Technical Report - 

Environmental Justice Analysis is included as an appendix to the Final EIS.

SPIAG11 Tier 2 Funding Heideman, Shelly The biggest question is where is the money coming from? I think the public should be told that this project 

may not be a reality for 15-20 years. The public also needs to push Congress to put money in the budget 

for HSR - Schock, Shimkus - etc.

The project will be constructed using a combination of local, state and federal funds as 

well from the affected railroad companies. There is no money available at this time for 

land acquisition or construction, and the project schedule will be dependent on available 

funding.

SPIAG22 Tier 2 General Comment Traeger, Sr. Mary Jean I want to be sure that the plan implements the Community Benefits Agreement developed by Faith 

Coalition for the Common Good. This includes local job creation, esp. for women and people of color, job 

training, provision of space, safety and noise control. Help for people being displaced and a mentoring 

committee to oversee implementation long range.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG3 Tier 2 General Comment Bland, Jeff My main concern is they adhere to The Rail Community Benefits Agreement with The Faith Coalition for 

common good and place it where it is safe for the whole community and you can get to both hospitals 

quickly, in case of a medical emergency.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG12 Tier 2 General Comment Jordan, Leroy 19th Street fiasco continues. Need to be open & honest with the public. Grade separations will be constructed for the 19th Street tracks at Ash and South Grand as 

shown in the Final EIS. No other changes are planned at 19th Street.

SPIAG15 Tier 2 General Comment McFarland, Scott

District 186 School 

Board

I have some concerns regarding the North end of the plan. Specifically there are major restructuring plans 

for North Grand near Lanphier High School. We need to ensure the the safety of the students are 

paramount. Also, it is striking that the homes being displaced are in the most impoverished areas of 

Springfield. I would like to volunteer to help on future planning committees.

Project coordination has included the School District and the Park District with regard to 

access to Lanphier High School and Lanphier Park. Overpasses at North Grand Avenue will 

improve safety at those locations. An Environmental Justice Technical Report is included 

as an appendix to the Final EIS.

SPIAG9 Tier 2 Grade Crossing Fulgenzi, Jeff Treatment to Peoria/9th Street underpass need an appropriate crossing to accommodate the Rt. 66 

Heritage Bike Trail specifically pedestrian crossing Peoria/9th Street nearest the UP bridge/underpass. 

Many pedestrians particulatly students cross E to W and W to E via that center pier rail bridge - need a safe 

way to cross Peoria/9th - Allow the Sherman/W'ville trail (Rt. 66 Heritage) to connect to network in SPI

The Union Pacific structure over 9th Street will not carry rail traffic after completion of the 

Springfield Rail Improvements Project. The post-project disposition of the Union Pacific 

right-of-way and facilities, including the structure, has not been determined.

SPIAG1 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Atteberry, Gregory We live at 2403 South 5th Street Springfield, ILL 62703. We are one of 3 houses that face S. 5th Street. 

None of the homes have front access to 5th Street, but rather have only rear access through an alley. We 

are in the identified group of moderate to severe noise. The other 2 of the 3 are in the group proposed to 

be purchased by the Federal Gov't. If the other 2 are purchased that leaves us as the only home facing 5th 

Street which will only increase the noise level. It will also lower our property value as the only thing that 

makes our home desireable is the fact that we are 3 identical blonde brick homes in a row and 2 are slated 

to be demolished. That will leave us with alley access in back, a tressel in front, the back of someone's 

home on the left (it faces Cross St) and demolished homes on the right. There are only 11 homes in the 

moderate to severe noise range in Springfield and we are one. With the demolished homes to the right our 

noise level will only increase and our value will be too severe to bear. We ask that you either choose and 

alternate route or include our home in the purchase plan. This will impact our lives immensely.

The effect of the project on the property at 2403 S. 6th Street has been re-evaluated, and 

it has been determined that it should be purchased for the project. The property will be 

shown as a displacement in future documents. 

SPIAG7 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Dennison, Jeffrey Maybe better maps or online maps that could zoom. My address is 2403 S 5th Street. 2405 and 2407 S 5th 

Street are being bought by the government leaving our one home alone on that block facing 5th Street. 

The improved line will make our home, truly, unsellable after the high speed is installed. And the increased 

noise and vibrations will surely be a problem. We are 1 of 11 'green dots' on the maps that we saw. If a 

representative were to come out and see the location I feel it would be a 'no-brainer' to buy this property 

also.

The effect of the project on the property at 2403 S. 6th Street has been re-evaluated, and 

it has been determined that it should be purchased for the project. The property will be 

shown as a displacement in future documents. 

Springfield Advisory Group Public Meeting - June 28, 2012, President Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701
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Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Advisory Group Public Meeting - June 28, 2012, President Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SPIAG10 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Grady, Pat Ref: residential displacements - If you are considering taking the house at 2500 Burton - please consider 

taking mine. I am 70 years old, live alone with a dog. I will sell it for $65,000 at 2506 Burton - next to house 

you will be taking - I need to work just for the upkeep. Thank you. P.S. I am directly across the street from 

401 Iles. You will, also, take that property.

Based on preliminary analysis it does not appear that the house at 2506 Burton Street will 

need to be acquired for the Springfield Rail Improvements Project, but that may change as 

the right-of-way requirements in the next phase of the project are further evaluated.

SPIAG16 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Morris, Gus We currently live along proposed site of 10th Street corridor. We have lived at the house for 50 years. We 

are concerned about noise and air polution to my residence. The corridor is probably going to impact our 

property values if we would like to sell. The staff at the meeting was helpful in explaining some of the study 

takes.

Because of the elimination of train horn noise and the reduction in vehicle delays the 

project will result in an overall reduction in noise and air pollution in the City.

SPIAG20 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Raybien, Corey I live at 2405 South 5th St. My home is proposed to be displaced in regards to the high speed rail project. 

I'm writing to express concerns about the 2403 South 5th Street address. This home is not considered to be 

displaced and I very much think that it should be moved to be being displaced. I've lived at 2405 South 5th 

Street for 9 years and it would be clear to any person who would step on the property of these two 

houses, that the rail system effects our home values, sound and visual appeal. In the 9 years as neighbors 

with 2403, we have worked hard to keep the living space and visual appeal up with the hopes of resale. I 

truly feel that 2403 should be included in the displacement. if it doesn't, it will be a tragic upside-down loss 

for these homeowners that have put forth much into the upkeep and value of this home.

The effect of the project on the property at 2403 S. 6th Street has been re-evaluated, and 

it has been determined that it should be purchased for the project. The property will be 

shown as a displacement in future documents. 

SPIAG23 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Vinson, Larry Submitted proposal approx. 2 year ago to install a two track system totally underground down the 3rd 

street corridor as far as needed/practical north to south. This could be completed with cooperation of 

other existing rail roads and some temporary tracks/right of ways. Would be very cost effective and meet 

every ones needs/demands. SEE ATTACHMENT. Would need cooperation of other existing RR systems.

This alternative was considered in preliminary screening and was eliminated because of 

high construction cost and construction staging issues.

SPIAG2 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Barber, Charlie I applaud IDOT for choosing-recommending the consolidation of UP train & Amtrak traffic from 3rd Street 

to the 10th Street Corridor. It improves safety for both pedestrian & vehicular traffic, increases access with 

additional under & over passes, fewer delays, eliminates fewer grade crossings, removes trains from 

downtown the medical district; The train station & multi modal bldg. would be close together & more 

convenient for travelers. Would provide economic development for the east side of Springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG4 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Cahnman, Sam

Alderman, Ward 5

Excellent proposal Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG5 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Casey, Roxanne Having this public meeting expanded my knowledge base regarding high speed rail. It took away the 

myths, fear, and anxiety that stem around the topic & conversations I heard throughout the city of 

Springfield. It dispelled the lies told to me. Thank you for the detail information, maps, and train 

professionals in attendance. They answered all my questions and gave me hope in the high speed rail in 

Springfield, IL.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG6 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Combs, Steve I support 2A Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG8 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ferry, Bruce Informative meeting. Good graphics and staffed to assist with concepts. Pleased to learn the 10th Street 

Corridor has been selected. Relocation will do wonders to help downtown Springfield and bring the state 

of Illinois Capitol complex grounds; buildings; employees within the CBD. The economic opportunities 

along the 10th Street Corridor will help stimulate areas in need of growth & improvement. Looks like a winwin if funding is approved. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG14 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

McEvoy, Aaron I will need to review further but it seems that the extra $20< for 2B would be worth it based upon the long 

term costs for upkeep are cheaper on 2B than 2A. Also I believe there would be less delays on 2A than 2B. I 

hope that the City, County, State, and all other parties are already looking at financing options - be it 

bonds, TIF district, etc. Why I mentioned TIF is this could spur economic development along the corridor. 

Maybe look for Federal Grants Associates with Brownfields. We will need to be creative in how we get this 

done, but hopefully we can get this accomplished before the next decade (2020).

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Springfield Advisory Group Public Meeting - June 28, 2012, President Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center, 701 East Adams Street, Springfield, IL 62701

SPIAG17 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Myers, Steve Alternative A2 is the only viable option. The abilitiy to construct the multi modal on the 10th Street right of 

way will alow for the bulk of investment for economic development to occur on the east side (amtrak 

station and mixed use) so as to benefit that area and facilitate a better connection. The "no horn" zone on 

19th Street, as well as the 2 new underpasses at south grand and ash will greatly benefit the adjoinging 

neighborhoods. Thank you

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG18 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

O'Shea, Paul I believe it is important to eliminate as many rail corridors thru the city as possible - preferably all 3 onto 

10th Street Corridor - next best is Alternatives #2A & 2B - Apparently 2A is best cost vs. benefit, but would 

like to see more underpasses. This is critical to the survival of our city & future development. It provides a 

safer situation with fewer on grade crossings - reduces traffic congestion - eliminates train whistles blasting 

almost continuously - overall long term costs should be beneficial to the RR companies and all parites. 10th 

Street Corridor has more room for all RR lines and for underpasses. Still a need for sensitive handling of 

displacements and still a need for support of funding options.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG19 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Poskin, Polly

President, Harvard 

Park Neighborhood 

Assoc.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, everyone who studied, convened meetings, attended meetings, met with 

officials, organized community speakouts, created poster sessions, developed detailed maps - all of the 

work that resulted in an informed decision to consolidate freight and passenger traffic on the 10th Street 

Corridor in Springfield, Illinois. The consolidation will lose traffic congestion, enhance safety and promote 

the liveability of our city. If the consolidation can be achieved, Springfield's economic & residential future is 

impressively bright.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIAG21 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sale, Dan

Capital Area 

Association of 

Realtors

I applaud IDOT and the FRA for their work on the Springfield EIS. I fully support option "2A" or the 10th 

Street Corridor. All of the data and information provided supports this as the most viable and reasonable 

option available. I fully encourage the adapting of this recommendation.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment 

No.

Draft EIS 

Volume

Draft EIS 

Section/Topic Commenter Comment Response

CHIPH1 Tier 1 and 

2

Alternative Darling, Philip 

MWHSR Member

Very informative of issues involved and how they're being dealt with to assure all concerns are addressed 

and dealt with. Chicago-Joliet: I support current C Heritage corridor for its simplicity and serving existing 

Amtrak service route. It would appear to be the least complicated and cost. Springfield: Tenth St would be 

less costly, closely paralleling existing service and causing less public inconvenience. St. Louis: Option 1A is 

less complicated and would be less costly although 1B would probably have more physical advantage while 

maybe increasing costs and more time consuming to accomplish.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

CHIPH2 Tier 1 and 

2

Alternative Decker, Ronald MR. DECKER: One, the Chicago-Joliet route should be the fastest and shortest one, which is probably the 

route through Lemont. Two, the route through Springfield should be the line as close to the State capitol as 

possible if that would generate more business. Three, there should be a stop in East St. Louis which would 

provide an easy transfer to the St. Louis light rail line and, if necessary, stop in East St. Louis rather than 

Alton. That's my comment.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

Chicago Public Hearing - August 9,2012, Union Station - Ballroom, 210 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

SPIOC1 Tier 2 General Comment Lauder, Winifred I was unable to attend the Aug. 8 meeting but heard that consideration is being given to not putting the 

Springfield station in the downtown area. I strongly support having the station in the downtown area. To 

not have the station in the State capital is unfair to residents who want or need to attend to government 

business. The station would also add to the economic development of Springfield which it needs and which 

would help the State as a whole. Thank you for the opportunity to express my opinion.

The recommended Alternative (Alternative 2A) locates the new passenger station in the 

downtown area along the 10th Street corridor. It would be immediately northeast of the 

County Building , across 9th Street from the Prairie Capital Convention Center and adjacent 

to the proposed bus transfer facility. This location would provide easy access to the 

government, employment and tourist destinations in and around downtown Springfield. 

SPIOC2 Tier 2 General Comment Collins, Paula I am very concerned about the choice of the 10th Street corridor for the High Speed Rail tracks. The city of 

Springfield is already clearly divided between the West side population who are well off, and the East Side 

residents who are lower income, poor, and in a lot of cases, minorities. Putting all the traffic on 10th Street 

will further segregate those of us on the East side more. Close to a million dollars was spent to renovate the 

train depot. Our City fathers have already been buying land along 10th street to build a new train/bus 

terminal. They have already put their money in that out come. It isn’t about anything but big business 

making more money on the backs of the poor, and isolating the East side even more that it already is.

The issues of community division and environmental justice are addressed in the Final EIS.

SPIOC3 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

General Comment Harnish, Rick Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

This letter serves as the Midwest High Speed Rail Association’s comment regarding the Draft Environmental 

Impact Statement (DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed 

Rail Corridor Program. The Midwest High Speed Rail Association supports the proposed investments 

outlined in the document, with several modifications that would allow for faster and more frequent trains 

in the future. MHSRA believes that sufficient travel demand exists to warrant making these investments 

today. As such, the implementation plan outlined in in Section 7 is too conservative. The State should 

expedite construction of the Chicago – Springfield improvements outlined in the DEIS, with modifications as 

suggested below. Our greatest concern is that this DEIS will be viewed as the State of Illinois’s long-term 

goal for the corridor. This DEIS calls for an express trip time of 3 hours 50 minutes with only 9 daily roundtrips. The long-term goal should be a Chicago – St. Louis trip time of less than 2 hours with at least hourly 

service. MHSRA recognizes that this aggressive service goal cannot be accomplished within the existing 

heavy-haul freight corridor studied in the DEIS. A new corridor, dedicated to high-speed passenger trains, 

will be needed for most of the route. We applaud IDOT for conducting a separate feasibility study for a 220-

mph Core Express line that would achieve the 2-hour trip time. There are three locations at which this DEIS 

suggests the construction of new infrastructure. Any new infrastructure constructed as part of this corridor 

plan should be constructed to also serve as the urban access for 220-mph Core Express trains in the future. 

Those three locations are as follows: Chicago Access: The DEIS does not adequately address the constraint 

created by the 21st street bridge over the Chicago River. This bridge has a very low river clearance and must 

be raised for small pleasure craft. The DEIS suggests a new bridge will be built alongside the existing bridge, 

but does not address how the clearance issues caused by the 16th Street bridge and the Orange Line bridge 

will be addressed. This oversight represents a serious flaw in the overall plan. The two routing options from 

Joliet to Chicago cannot be properly evaluated without a developing a true plan for this bridge. The St. 

Charles Airline bridge is substantially higher than the 21st Street bridge and may offer a better solution. 

MHSRA requests that Option 4B, which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into 

Union Station, be returned as an active option and that any further planning around the 21st Street bridge 

consider the needs of Core Express trains. Springfield Routing: MHSRA supports making short-term 

improvements to the 3rd Street corridor needed to improve trip times, reliability and safety until the 10th 

Street corridor is constructed. MHSRA requests that the 10th Street corridor be designed and constructed 

to: • Eliminate highway grade crossings • Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign • 

Create separate passenger tracks, with provisions for future electrification Mississippi River Bridge: The 

DEIS correctly identifies the need for additional railroad capacity over the Mississippi River at St. Louis. 

MHSRA requests that any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge be designed to serve as the 

crossing point for Core Express trains. Additionally, the State should consider the potential of leaving the 

existing corridor south of Springfield. This would overcome the challenge presented in the Macoupin 

Bottoms and the additional curvature present south of Springfield. It would then eliminate duplicating state 

investment when the State moves to construct 220- mph track linking these cities. Thank you for the 

opportunity to comment.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC4 Tier 2 General Comment Ridgeway, Ann I live on dead end witch is a waste across old Pillsbury mill nothing ever gets done here very seldom do u 

see city down this way hardly plowed no road work across from elevators 2 30 yrs I lived here seen this 

block go down hill just might as well use this than city doesn't have to make time for us branch pickup not 

hardly lays metals bought Pillsbury little railroad across street by Pillsbury cant understand why they will 

just letter this property go to waste its huge also the trains have come more and more between the noise of 

click clack and some right after another its hard to stay outside teeth street corridor s down at end of block 

it doesn't make since to pass this dead end up and railstaion it is wasted land coons and rats at mill eye sore 

if they will buy all this they can make station in brick part of mill and hotel rooms on other my house isn't 

going to be worth anything and we just paid it off I should be happy about it but the neighbor hood isn't 

even worth anything am off north grand on n.15.sp.il. I would sell in a minute and so will my nighbor,the 

tracks bend around here to meet I wish I new something before winter the train are coming more and more 

the switching yard across at Pillsbury always has ugly trains setting there and building is being marked all 

over a shame a dirty rotten shame I told the railroad mt walls in hall crack already from the trains and 

windows shake its a shame I have to have my house marred with cracks and stuff shakes and falls at time

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

will be needed for most of the route. We applaud IDOT for conducting a separate feasibility study for a 220-

mph Core Express line that would achieve the 2-hour trip time. There are three locations at which this DEIS 

suggests the construction of new infrastructure. Any new infrastructure constructed as part of this corridor 

plan should be constructed to also serve as the urban access for 220-mph Core Express trains in the future. 

Those three locations are as follows: Chicago Access: The DEIS does not adequately address the constraint 

created by the 21st street bridge over the Chicago River. This bridge has a very low river clearance and must 

be raised for small pleasure craft. The DEIS suggests a new bridge will be built alongside the existing bridge, 

but does not address how the clearance issues caused by the 16th Street bridge and the Orange Line bridge 

will be addressed. This oversight represents a serious flaw in the overall plan. The two routing options from 

Joliet to Chicago cannot be properly evaluated without a developing a true plan for this bridge. The St. 

Charles Airline bridge is substantially higher than the 21st Street bridge and may offer a better solution. 

MHSRA requests that Option 4B, which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into 

Union Station, be returned as an active option and that any further planning around the 21st Street bridge 

consider the needs of Core Express trains. Springfield Routing: MHSRA supports making short-term 

improvements to the 3rd Street corridor needed to improve trip times, reliability and safety until the 10th 

Street corridor is constructed. MHSRA requests that the 10th Street corridor be designed and constructed 

to: • Eliminate highway grade crossings • Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign • 

Create separate passenger tracks, with provisions for future electrification Mississippi River Bridge: The 

DEIS correctly identifies the need for additional railroad capacity over the Mississippi River at St. Louis. 

MHSRA requests that any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge be designed to serve as the 

crossing point for Core Express trains. Additionally, the State should consider the potential of leaving the 

existing corridor south of Springfield. This would overcome the challenge presented in the Macoupin 

Bottoms and the additional curvature present south of Springfield. It would then eliminate duplicating state 

investment when the State moves to construct 220- mph track linking these cities. Thank you for the 

opportunity to comment.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC5 Tier 2 General Comment Reynolds, Will Alternatives that use the 3rd Street corridor were carried forward into the EIS for detailed 

analysis. These alternatives were eliminated for reasons presented in the Final EIS.

The following are my comments to IDOT regarding the Springfield section of the draft Environmental 

Impact Statement on the Chicago to St. Louis High Speed Rail corridor. Springfield has had an auto-centric 

discussion of the high speed rail issue. Much attention has been focused on how rail interrupts auto-traffic 

while there has been very little discussion of what location is the most suitable for passenger rail combined 

with a multi-modal facility. Decreasing use of oil is a vital national interest for both economic and 

environmental reasons. Good passenger rail can also be an effective tool for slowing sprawl and bringing 

more people to the city center. For that reason, it's important that Springfield pick a location that will 

increase rather than decrease use of mass transit. The studies conducted so far warn of a bottleneck if rail 

traffic is consolidated on the 10th street corridor. Delays caused by freight traffic are perhaps the most 

common and annoying inconvenience of riding Amtrak. So, it's extremely encouraging that every Amtrak 

ride I've taken from Springfield to Chicago has been on time or early since track improvements along the 

corridor have been completed. Reliable, on-time service will result in more ridership. IDOT should fully 

consider the implications of consolidation making Springfield a bottleneck that could routinely throw 

passenger rail off schedule for the St. Louis to Chicago line. Additionally, there are many local issues to 

consider. The location for a 10th street corridor passenger multi-modal center proposed by county and city 

officials is currently a community hub for important non-profit groups, local government offices, and social 

service agencies. The surrounding blocks include: Salvation Army rehabilitation center, shelter and thrift 

store Triangle counseling and rehabilitation center Catholic Charities crisis center and food pantry Contact 

Ministries shelter and other services Planned Parenthood Urban League building Computer Banc Springfield 

Housing Authority building The County jail and courthouse is also nearby. The area leaves little room for 

commercial or residential development. Proponents of the 10th street location suggest that it would spur 

economic development in the surrounding area. That's an unrealistic goal unless social service agencies are 

forced out of the neighborhood. No county or city leader has disclosed the costs of doing so or plans for 

where the agencies would be compelled to relocate. It's doubtful whether all of the cash-strapped nonprofits would be able to remain downtown in close proximity to each other, and the citizens they serve, if 

forced to move. The alternative is to leave most of these valued social service agencies where they are. 

Some would be forced out to make room for the multi-modal facility, such as Salvation Army and Planned 

Parenthood. It's difficult to understand why the city council would approve $1.8 million in TIF funds for the 

Salvation Army site if they're serious about using the location for a multi-modal center. Those funds would 

be wasted. Good multi-modal centers should be located where people feel comfortable walking at night 

and leaving their car for the weekend. I'm glad we have these service agencies in Springfield. But, imagine 

what sort of welcome a 10th street facility would make to those visiting the city. Nothing says "welcome to 

Springfield!" like asking visitors trying to reach their hotel or tourist site to run a gauntlet of people going to 

and from a shelter, rehab center or the county jail. Is that really the best way to encourage visitors to travel 

by train? The location could only discourage tourists and business travelers from using mass transit. It's also 

less convenient for professionals and citizen lobbyists who visit the Capitol complex during legislative 

sessions. It's difficult to imagine a location in Springfield less suitable for a passenger rail station than the 

proposed 10th street corridor. Let's compare the 10th street location to the 3rd street corridor where the 

Amtrak station is currently located. Springfield recently spent $571,500 in TIF funds upgrading the station. 

Across the street to the South is a vital part of any multi-modal facility: a municipal parking garage. The 

station shares the block with a parking lot. Across the street to the north is another parking lot and a 

building which appears to be unused. Much of the infrastructure needed for a multi-modal facility, plus 

room to expand, already exists at the 3rd street location. The block east of the current Amtrak station 

includes commercial, retail and residential space currently advertised for lease. Much of the downtown 

business district is within three short blocks. All of these locations would benefit from the increased foot 

traffic that comes with a good public transit center. It could become a focal point of downtown 

revitalization. That however, would require city leaders to view passenger rail as an advantage, rather than 

merely an inconvenience that slows the speed at which cars race away from downtown. Passenger rail 

service should be located in an area convenient to foot traffic and where it strengthens businesses in the 

city center, as Bloomington/Normal and Champaign/Urbana have done. By both measures, the existing 

Amtrak station is a far superior location. The businesses which might be most inconvenienced by a multimodal facility on 3rd are a luxury car dealership across the tracks and the private Sangamo Club. I suppose 

the owners and clientele of those businesses have more clout than those who use the social service 

agencies. Perhaps that has been a driving factor behind public discussion of this decision. The fact that 

those most in need in the community are also the most likely to have services dislocated by 10th Street 

consolidation is a serious social/environmental justice issueAt every point in the public processlocal 
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

consider the implications of consolidation making Springfield a bottleneck that could routinely throw 

passenger rail off schedule for the St. Louis to Chicago line. Additionally, there are many local issues to 

consider. The location for a 10th street corridor passenger multi-modal center proposed by county and city 

officials is currently a community hub for important non-profit groups, local government offices, and social 

service agencies. The surrounding blocks include: Salvation Army rehabilitation center, shelter and thrift 

store Triangle counseling and rehabilitation center Catholic Charities crisis center and food pantry Contact 

Ministries shelter and other services Planned Parenthood Urban League building Computer Banc Springfield 

Housing Authority building The County jail and courthouse is also nearby. The area leaves little room for 

commercial or residential development. Proponents of the 10th street location suggest that it would spur 

economic development in the surrounding area. That's an unrealistic goal unless social service agencies are 

forced out of the neighborhood. No county or city leader has disclosed the costs of doing so or plans for 

where the agencies would be compelled to relocate. It's doubtful whether all of the cash-strapped nonprofits would be able to remain downtown in close proximity to each other, and the citizens they serve, if 

forced to move. The alternative is to leave most of these valued social service agencies where they are. 

Some would be forced out to make room for the multi-modal facility, such as Salvation Army and Planned 

Parenthood. It's difficult to understand why the city council would approve $1.8 million in TIF funds for the 

Salvation Army site if they're serious about using the location for a multi-modal center. Those funds would 

be wasted. Good multi-modal centers should be located where people feel comfortable walking at night 

and leaving their car for the weekend. I'm glad we have these service agencies in Springfield. But, imagine 

what sort of welcome a 10th street facility would make to those visiting the city. Nothing says "welcome to 

Springfield!" like asking visitors trying to reach their hotel or tourist site to run a gauntlet of people going to 

and from a shelter, rehab center or the county jail. Is that really the best way to encourage visitors to travel 

by train? The location could only discourage tourists and business travelers from using mass transit. It's also 

less convenient for professionals and citizen lobbyists who visit the Capitol complex during legislative 

sessions. It's difficult to imagine a location in Springfield less suitable for a passenger rail station than the 

proposed 10th street corridor. Let's compare the 10th street location to the 3rd street corridor where the 

Amtrak station is currently located. Springfield recently spent $571,500 in TIF funds upgrading the station. 

Across the street to the South is a vital part of any multi-modal facility: a municipal parking garage. The 

station shares the block with a parking lot. Across the street to the north is another parking lot and a 

building which appears to be unused. Much of the infrastructure needed for a multi-modal facility, plus 

room to expand, already exists at the 3rd street location. The block east of the current Amtrak station 

includes commercial, retail and residential space currently advertised for lease. Much of the downtown 

business district is within three short blocks. All of these locations would benefit from the increased foot 

traffic that comes with a good public transit center. It could become a focal point of downtown 

revitalization. That however, would require city leaders to view passenger rail as an advantage, rather than 

merely an inconvenience that slows the speed at which cars race away from downtown. Passenger rail 

service should be located in an area convenient to foot traffic and where it strengthens businesses in the 

city center, as Bloomington/Normal and Champaign/Urbana have done. By both measures, the existing 

Amtrak station is a far superior location. The businesses which might be most inconvenienced by a multimodal facility on 3rd are a luxury car dealership across the tracks and the private Sangamo Club. I suppose 

the owners and clientele of those businesses have more clout than those who use the social service 

agencies. Perhaps that has been a driving factor behind public discussion of this decision. The fact that 

those most in need in the community are also the most likely to have services dislocated by 10th Street 

consolidation is a serious social/environmental justice issue. At every point in the public process, local 

leaders have avoided discussion of which location is more suitable for passenger rail and have instead 

focused on the inconveniences posed by the inevitable increase in freight traffic resulting from the new 

Joliet rail terminal. I submitted a comment to the previous Springfield corridor study (conducted by Hanson 

Engineering and a community panel) suggesting that the potential economic growth benefits for the area 

surrounding 3rd be examined. The question was ignored. Instead, the study limited its conclusions to the 

claim that leaving 3rd street rail in place would prevent expansion in the medical district. Since then, 

Memorial began construction an expansion in the medical district with a new building near the tracks. 

Personally, I felt one of the best benefits of living in the medical district was being in walking distance of the 

Amtrak station. That previous study was flawed because it did not consider the most appealing location for 

passenger rail. Springfield leaders have failed to discuss how improved mass transit at the present location 

would attract new residents and increase property values in the nearby medical district and downtown. 

Additionally, the manner in which most informational meetings were conducted, where individuals had to 

ask questions to staff one-on-one, did not include a public comment component that might have exposed 

residents to issues and concerns outside what has been voiced by local officials. Further, the citizen 

advisory groups did not include representatives from organizations which specifically advocate for 

improved passenger rail and mass transit service. Springfield could have spent the past two years 

discussing the best way to accommodate increased rail traffic on the 3rd street corridor. Instead, residents 

have been presented a worst case scenario with misleading post card images, unsupported horror stories 

about the Dana Thomas house crumbling apart, and a steady drumbeat of hyperbole. We have been told a 

multi-modal facility would bring economic development to the area surrounding 10th street, but 

mysteriously, the same facility would bring economic ruin if located on 3rd. I'm afraid that many comments 

received by IDOT will likely be based on misconceptions spread by a fear campaign, rather than an 

objective, informed analysis. I hope that IDOT will not allow itself to be bullied by city and county officials 

who refuse to consider anything other than their initial proposal. I can only speculate as to why some city 

leaders are insistent on a poor location for passenger rail. The location was discussed decades ago when 

there was still a public housing complex near the 10th street corridor. Some people still hold to the 

outdated notion that mass transit should primarily be used by those who have no other option due to 
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

station shares the block with a parking lot. Across the street to the north is another parking lot and a 

building which appears to be unused. Much of the infrastructure needed for a multi-modal facility, plus 

room to expand, already exists at the 3rd street location. The block east of the current Amtrak station 

includes commercial, retail and residential space currently advertised for lease. Much of the downtown 

business district is within three short blocks. All of these locations would benefit from the increased foot 

traffic that comes with a good public transit center. It could become a focal point of downtown 

revitalization. That however, would require city leaders to view passenger rail as an advantage, rather than 

merely an inconvenience that slows the speed at which cars race away from downtown. Passenger rail 

service should be located in an area convenient to foot traffic and where it strengthens businesses in the 

city center, as Bloomington/Normal and Champaign/Urbana have done. By both measures, the existing 

Amtrak station is a far superior location. The businesses which might be most inconvenienced by a multimodal facility on 3rd are a luxury car dealership across the tracks and the private Sangamo Club. I suppose 

the owners and clientele of those businesses have more clout than those who use the social service 

agencies. Perhaps that has been a driving factor behind public discussion of this decision. The fact that 

those most in need in the community are also the most likely to have services dislocated by 10th Street 

consolidation is a serious social/environmental justice issue. At every point in the public process, local 

leaders have avoided discussion of which location is more suitable for passenger rail and have instead 

focused on the inconveniences posed by the inevitable increase in freight traffic resulting from the new 

Joliet rail terminal. I submitted a comment to the previous Springfield corridor study (conducted by Hanson 

Engineering and a community panel) suggesting that the potential economic growth benefits for the area 

surrounding 3rd be examined. The question was ignored. Instead, the study limited its conclusions to the 

claim that leaving 3rd street rail in place would prevent expansion in the medical district. Since then, 

Memorial began construction an expansion in the medical district with a new building near the tracks. 

Personally, I felt one of the best benefits of living in the medical district was being in walking distance of the 

Amtrak station. That previous study was flawed because it did not consider the most appealing location for 

passenger rail. Springfield leaders have failed to discuss how improved mass transit at the present location 

would attract new residents and increase property values in the nearby medical district and downtown. 

Additionally, the manner in which most informational meetings were conducted, where individuals had to 

ask questions to staff one-on-one, did not include a public comment component that might have exposed 

residents to issues and concerns outside what has been voiced by local officials. Further, the citizen 

advisory groups did not include representatives from organizations which specifically advocate for 

improved passenger rail and mass transit service. Springfield could have spent the past two years 

discussing the best way to accommodate increased rail traffic on the 3rd street corridor. Instead, residents 

have been presented a worst case scenario with misleading post card images, unsupported horror stories 

about the Dana Thomas house crumbling apart, and a steady drumbeat of hyperbole. We have been told a 

multi-modal facility would bring economic development to the area surrounding 10th street, but 

mysteriously, the same facility would bring economic ruin if located on 3rd. I'm afraid that many comments 

received by IDOT will likely be based on misconceptions spread by a fear campaign, rather than an 

objective, informed analysis. I hope that IDOT will not allow itself to be bullied by city and county officials 

who refuse to consider anything other than their initial proposal. I can only speculate as to why some city 

leaders are insistent on a poor location for passenger rail. The location was discussed decades ago when 

there was still a public housing complex near the 10th street corridor. Some people still hold to the 

outdated notion that mass transit should primarily be used by those who have no other option due to 

poverty or disability, such as many of those utilizing the social service facilities along 10th. A 10th street 

multi-modal facility makes perfect sense if one makes decisions based on those obsolete assumptions. In 

contrast, successful mass transit will appeal to everyone, including those who have the option of driving. I 

hope IDOT will be of service to the residents of Springfield by fully exploring these unexamined issues.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC6 Tier 2 General Comment Lucas , David This whole project is a perfect example of what is wrong with government. There is NO money for this Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

project. The city will never be able to raise enough money, and the state and federal government are 

essentially bankrupt. There are no funding sources for this project, and the costs will only escalate as time 

goes by. If the money miraculously materializes, then we can talk about this. Without the funding for the 

project all this time and money spent on planning is just a waste of taxpayers money. And for what? To 

save a few St. Louis to Chicago travelers a few minutes off their travel time? We all know that this will never 

be high speed rail in any real sense of the word. It might be marginally faster than the current passenger 

trains but it will never be remotely close to what most people envision as "high speed". And without a 

proven GPS/computerized positive train control system, you'll not be able to weave the passenger trains in 

amongst the longer freight trains. They tried to test this system in Illinois a while back and had to terminate 

the test as Illinois posed "too complex a test environment." And all this money to move the tracks only 7 

blocks! Get serious! Please! There will never be passenger trains flying through downtown Springfield. They 

will have speed limits and will have to stop for passengers downtown. These few additional proposed trains 

will pose no threat to any facility along its route in Springfield and property values will not be affected. 

Susan Dana build one of the country's most beautiful homes right next to the tracks. The state capitol is 

only a block away from the tracks, and Isringhausen built a world class business right next to the tracks. It 

didn't diminish value then and it won't now. If the tracks are not relocated. the absolute worse case is that 

motorists will have to wait a few minutes for the more numerous freight trains, but they will be traveling 

faster on the new improved road bed and the waits will be shorter. No new crossings, viaducts, 

underpasses will be required. Just wait for the train as you do now. It isn't going to be coming through at 

110 mph! Nationally, the problems with this overall plan are threefold: 1. "High speed" was never defined. 

Apparently it's just one mile per hour faster than current trains. 2. Far less money was allocated to this 

project than will ever be needed to complete it, and no new money appears to be forthcoming. 3. Federal 

money should have been directed to the northeast corridor of the US where ridership warrants the 

additional expenditure. That area of the country uses passenger rail extensively and desperately need funds 

for improved tunnels, bridges and roadbeds and needs additional rolling stock to carry the passenger load. 

Let's not waste any more money on this project. We don't have the money to do it, and the massive 

disruption it would cause does not justify the very questionable "improvements" it might generate.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC7 Tier 2 Historic Structures Jacobson, Jerry

Save Old Springfield

It would be preferable if all trains were routed around rather than through our capital city. However, should 

the 10th Street corridor be selected, it should be routed so as not to destroy the most iconic remaining 

industrial building here of the early 20th century and one of the most significant--and attractive--in the 

entire industrial history of Springfield: the imposing clock tower of the former Illinois Watch Company. 

Constructed in 1918 and now part of the Illinois Environmental Agency complex, the tower stands as the 

most visible symbol of a 63-year history of watch making here that made the company nationally 

prominent and internationally recognized. From the turn of the 20th century, the firm specialized in 

railroad watches and became the foremost manufacturer of timepieces for the American railroad industry 

and a significant exporter as well, helping pioneer the logistical technology that served the enforcement of 

standard time for railroads throughout the world. Around the period of the construction of the clock tower, 

of only 11 watch models to pass an accuracy test by the National Naval Observatory, ten were from the 

Illinois Watch factory. The durability and dependability of one of its models led Roald Amundsen, the 

famed polar explorer, to select it for one of his expeditions. One department of the company evolved into a 

separate firm that itself gained national prominence and global recognition--Sangamo Electric Company. 

Occupying the same facilities as Illinois Watch, including the clock tower, Sangamo Electric became one of 

the country's major manufacturers and exporters of electric meters and an innovative defense industry 

firm, responsible for patents that included the first Delco amperehour meter for automobile starters. At its 

peak, during World War II, the company employed over 3,000. The clock tower, then, represents two major 

national and international elements in the industrial history of Springfield and as such must be preserved.

The clock tower of the former Illinois Watch Company will not be affected by the project. 

SPIOC8 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Arnberger, Kevin

CK Dairy Dreams

How will the business along North Grand Ave. be affected by this plan. My business is at the corner of 19th 

and North Grand Ave E.

The current plan shows three commercial displacement on North Grand Avenue:

- 1613 North Grand

- 1615 North Grand 

- 1635 North Grand

There are no other commercial displacements planned on North Grand Avenue. 

SPIOC9 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Koller, Carol I would like to know who and how they will determine the value of our home. We recently spent $10,000 

on remodeling and upgrading to make our home handicap accessible for my husband

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for businesses displaced by projects such as 

this one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance.

SPIOC10 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Barker, J. Michael

Springfield Electric 

Supply Company

Springfield Electric Supply Company operates from 3 parcels of land listed on the affected properties 

schedule along the 10th Street corridor. The title of said properties is listed as Land Trust 3156. Springfield 

Electric Supply has operated from this location for over 60 years and currently employs 70 people at this 

site. • The primary owners of the Land Trust and of Springfield Electric Supply Company endorse the use of 

the 10th Street corridor (option 2B) for rail traffic. • The 10th Street corridor option will severely impact our 

ability to do business from this site in the future. • Springfield Electric will be forced to move all facets of 

our business as the amount of land (and building) that will be used for the corridor will prevent our ability 

to conduct business effectively from the remaining building and site. • The owners request that when land 

acquisition begins} all of our 3 properties be completely acquired. • The owners also request consideration 

for the significant costs that will be incurred to relocate Springfield Electric Supply Company.

To provide uniform and equitable treatment for businesses displaced by projects such as 

this one, Congress passed the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 and amended it in 1987. The law provides not only for just 

compensation but also for relocation assistance.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC11 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Atteberry, Gregory I am a homeowner at 2403 S. 5th in Springfield. The recent developments in the Railroad Relocation project 

if approved as proposed will affect my property greatly. As outlined in the proposal two homes next to 

mine will be acquired 2405 and 2407 S. 5th. My home has been identified in the project as a home that will 

incur moderate-severe noise level from the project. The three homes are the only homes on that small 

stretch that face 5th street and have a direct front view of the rail line and the viaduct. There are several 

issues that are of extreme concern to me that will affect the value of my home. The first is that the three 

homes I have mentioned were all built at the same time by the same contractor. They are identical yellow 

brick homes built stair-stepped along the track with no front access to 5th street and private access in back 

through the alley. Their desirability is directly related to the way they were positioned and built to look the 

same. With the other two homes gone as proposed this leaves my home as the only home on that stretch 

facing the tracks and 5th street. Second my home is made of brick and plaster--not wood or drywall. 

Increased rail traffic now closer to my property will surely have an effect on the structural integrity of my 

home. Damage will be inevitable. Third as already identified by your proposal my home will be in a 

moderate to severe noise level from the increased, closer rail traffic. If you could see how close the tracks 

will be to my home you would surely see that "severe" is a likely understatement. In fact your study as far 

as I could tell only identified 10 residential homes in all of Springfield that have this designation. These 

three factors will without a doubt severely reduce the value of my home if not make it virtually impossible 

to sell. I realize that High Speed Rail is the future of Springfield and I realize it needs to go somewhere. I am 

not opposed to the relocation proposal as long as the City, State and Federal governments are fair to all 

citizens who are directly affected by this. In my opinion I feel my property needs to re-examined for that 

effect. I feel if the proposal is to move forward the only fair and just move would be for the project to 

acquire my property along with the two homes next to me. Please relate my intense concern to the decision 

makers that they need to relook at these properties that lay directly in front of the tracks and overpass on 

5th Street.

The effect of the project on the property at 2403 S. 6th Street has been re-evaluated, and 

it has been determined that it should be purchased for the project. The property will be 

shown as a displacement in future documents. 

SPIOC12 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Rayburn, Corey Hello, I have lived at 2405 S. 5th street for 9 years. If the the 10th street rail is approved for the path of 

travel for the high-speed rail, my home is projected as one to be purchased by the rail system. I just wanted 

to let whoever know that I am prepared and ready for this decision and if the budget is approved, i want my 

home to be purchased as soon as possible.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC14 Tier 2 Land Acquisition Grady, Pat 

Springfield South 

Corridor 

Neighborhood 

Association

In 2009 as president of the Springfield South Corridor Neighborhood Association I was participant in the 

initial Hanson project for high speed rail. In the comment portion of the last two public meetings I have 

requested to consider taking my property at 2506 Burton as the home next to me at 2500 Burton and the 

business at 300 Iles, which is directly across the street, are included in the list of properties that will be 

taken to make room for the high speed rail project. My property was determined to be highly impacted 

with rail noise and vibration. Under these conditions I would not be able to sell my house when the time 

comes that I am unable to take care of my property. (I am well beyond retirement age) I am asking that I am 

contacted to discuss alternatives and what consideration will be afforded to my situation.

Thank you.

Based on preliminary analysis it does not appear that the house at 2506 Burton Street will 

need to be acquired for the Springfield Rail Improvements Project, but that may change as 

the right-of-way requirements in the next phase of the project are further evaluated.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC15 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Harnish, Zach Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC16 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Goldin, Dave Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC17 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Rygh, Tom Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC18 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Goodrow, Richard Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC19 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Carr, Dennis Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC20 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Kudlacik, Harriet Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC21 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Back, William Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC22 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Barshis, Jan Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC23 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Roach, John Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC24 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Egan, Sally Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC25 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change LeBeau, Jon Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC26 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Warner, Timothy Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC27 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Shelton, James Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC28 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Hart, Robert Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC29 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Israel, Robert Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC30 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Ebbinghouse, Aaron Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC31 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Anonymous, Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC32 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Zabaly, Nicholas Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. It is essential to the economic future of 

Illinois, and the entire Midwest, that rail infrastructure be continue to be improved. As the nation 

increasingly must seek energyefficient and user-affordable transportation alternatives in the coming 

decades, rail will

need to take a larger share of the passenger mix. The improvements highlighted in the Draft EIS are 

commendable, and should be viewed as the first step toward a comprehensive plan to make the Midwest 

one of America's transportation leaders. As a user of Illinois' existing rail systems, both local/statesupported and long-distance Amtrak, the planned improvements will have a beneficial impact on my life, so 

I am very pleased with the progress being made. Thank you for striving to improve passenger rail in the 

Midwest, and please include plans for further improvements to true high-speed rail in your developments 

moving forward.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC33 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Simmons, Hillery Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC34 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Lyons, Joe Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC35 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Holman-Gomez, Brent Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC36 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Shinners, Karen Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC37 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Fisher, Andrew

Website Designer

Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC38 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Kriston, Ira Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC39 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Olson, Layton Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. 4) Please design the entire system and ROW 

assets to enable the system, surrounding communities, regions and the state benefit from fiber and 

wireless communication sharing, linked with; economic development, as well as to improve signaling and 

train management and world-class communication services for riders and transportation-oriented 

development., in concert with regional planning agencies all along the corridor, and with University of 

Illinois and other parties developing virtual infrastructure modeling and management tools for built and 

natural environment assets at grade, below grade and in the air.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC40 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change McCarter, Daniel Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC41 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Kevin, 

Schaaf

Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC42 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Weaver, Barry Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC43 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Self, Charles Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC44 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Kaplan, David Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC45 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Weese Young, Shirley Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC46 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Thompson, Jim Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. I'm not an Illinois resident, but am from 

Iowa. I feel the progress made in Illinois toward developing high speed rail, especially to Iowa's borders, but 

other states too, will encourage not only Iowa, but these same other states, to build out a Midwest high 

speed rail network. The benefits have already been enumerated elsewhere, so I'll assume you know them. 

So, please seriously consider the Midwest High Speed Rail Association's proposals for the DEIS for the 

Chicago – St. Louis 110mph double tracking project.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC47 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Christensen, Colleen Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC48 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Mier, Charles Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC49 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Johnson, David Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC50 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Ryckbost, Paul Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC51 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Hein, Chris Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC52 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Ratliff, Jerry Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. 4) I am curious how you will redo Springfield 

as it is residential trackage- switching to the

other depot?

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC53 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Woodard, Gwen Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. 4) I'd like to see Northwest Indiana included 

prior to Indianapolis. Gary, Indiana is the

largest city in NWI and should be considered in the planned route.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC54 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Tomzik, David Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. 4) increase the number of trains to hourly 

service and work to reduce the travel time even further.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC55 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Miofsky, Christopher Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. 4) Please add more train lines to Lemont 

Illinois to Chicago and throughout other stops for

the state.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC56 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change LaPorte, Cinthia Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains. 4) Please add more train lines to Lemont 

Illinois to Chicago and throughout other stops for

the state.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC57 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Michael, Dave Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC58 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Guenther, Erich Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC59 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change soenson, Leland Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC60 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Wedra, Art Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please design any new bridge or improvements to an existing bridge 

to serve as the crossing point for 220-mph Core Express trains.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC61 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Suggested Change Hutchison, Bill Thank you for giving the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

(DEIS) that has been prepared for the Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri High Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. Fast, frequent and dependable trains are critical to maintaining a vibrant economy. I applaud the 

State of Illinois for taking a leadership role in the development of high-speed rail in the Midwest. The 

investments outlined in the DEIS are urgently needed. The State should expedite construction of these 

improvements, with modifications as suggested below. 1) Please develop a detailed plan for building a 

replacement for or parallel of the 21st Street bridge. As part of that planning, please return Option 4B, 

which includes a new, direct connection from the St. Charles Airline into Union Station, as an active option. 

2) Please design the new 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL to: * Eliminate highway grade crossings * 

Allow for passenger trains to access Decatur and Champaign * Create separate passenger tracks, with 

provisions for future electrification 3) Please address choke points and junctions between St. Louis and 

Alton. In my view, the best route is via UP thru Granite City and E. St. Louis. There are interlockings at 

.Wann (Wood River), Lenox (Mitchell), WR Jct. (Granite City) and East St. Louis that could delay trains. 

There are also many grade crossings on this route that will need to be addressed. That said, this is much 

faster than the route via Merchants Bridge and north St. Louis. As to the MacArthur bridge, there should 

either be a double decking as suggested or a new bridge to get train in and out of St. Louis quickly. In either 

case, passenger trains should be kept separate from freights until on the east side of the river. The 

possibility of separate passenger tracks should be examined, at least between St. Louis-E St Louis and WR 

Jct and maybe a flyover at the latter point. Stations - Alton could be relocated as is under consideration. 

There could be a Metro-East station at Mitchell to serve N St. Louis County and the metro east area. E St. 

Louis is a non starter because the whole area is very depressed and is close to the downtown St Louis 

terminal. E St Louis should be left for future phases.

Alternative 2B, which eliminated all of the at-grade crossings on 10th Street< was 

eliminated for the reasons stated in the Final EIS.

SPIOC62 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Peters , James

Coldwell Banker 

Commercial 

I don't think it really matters much because no agency has the funds to proceed with the 10th Street 

consolidation in the first place. But, there is no conceivable reason to keep these tracks in the center of 

town. All the real traffic needs to be rerouted around the city, not through it. If we get the 10th Street 

scheme we will have dozens of trains every day within 50 feet of Lanphier High School. How much sense 

does that make? Is rerouting around the city expensive? Yes, of course it is. But, who really cares. It's all 

money we don't have to begin with. One additional item, if you please. Passenger rail traffic, high speed or 

otherwise, is not compatible with freight traffic. Your "high speed" scheme is anything buy high speed. And, 

there is not a "high speed" rail system in the world that is not government subsidized. NONE are self 

sufficient. What's the point? if the "high speed" system doesn't have its own track system nothing changes.

The suggested alternative was considered during preliminary screening and was eliminated 

because of high cost and environmental impacts.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC63 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Stephens, Donn I am NOT in favor of consolidating rail traffic in Springfield from 3rd Street to 10th Street. I am in favor of 

having the high speed rail traffic on 3rd Street.

The suggested alternative was carried forward for detailed study and was eliminated for 

reasons presented in the Final EIS.

SPIOC64 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Peters, James I'd like to express my opposition to running all this railroad traffic through the city. Even back in the 70's 

and early 80's the "Springfield Railroad Relocation Authority" proposed moving all traffic around the city. 

Unfortunately, about all they accomplished was to study it to death. Then, when the money dried up the 

"authority" was dissolved. I don't understand the difference. We don't have the money to do ANY of the 

proposed projects. So, I see no reason not to explore a route around the city. What's the difference if we 

barrow $5 billion or $7 billion? And, as has been pointed out time and time again, "high speed" rail traffic 

and freight traffic are NOT compatible. Why have a 120 MPH passenger train that spends half it's time 

sitting on a siding waiting for a freight train to pass. It make no sense to spend all these billions to save less 

than 30 minutes on a trip from Chicago to St. Louis. Chicago politicians/bureaucrats won't use it either. 

Why would they when they can fly on a state plane on my dime? And finally, there is not a single high 

speed rail system in the world that is not subsidized by the government, NOT ONE. We support Amtrak 

now, why would we double down on this "high speed" nonsense?

The suggested alternative was considered during preliminary screening and was eliminated 

because of high cost and environmental impacts.

SPIOC65 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Metz, Elfi While I think that the input of the people living near the tenth street corridor should weigh more than 

others, we all know that this is not the case. Nevertheless, I live in Harvard Park and have to listen to the 

trains coming through that corridor. We cannot sleep with the windows open because of all that noise that 

comes with trains. Now they want to shove more of that noise down our throats! Not to mention that the 

property values will plummet and the city will be even more clearly divided east/west. What I don't 

understand is why we need that increase in traffic when all these trains are merely passing through. It is of 

no value to the citizens of Springfield! Not only will it cost monies to build the overpasses (and of course 

that cost will be passed down to us), it is disruptive and devastating to properties involved. Does anyone 

even give a rats behind about what we, the taxpayers of this town, want? Apparently not! Put the trains in 

your backyard and see how you like it! If you haven't figured out by now that I am whole-heartedly against 

the idea, it wouldn't surprise me. The government of this city and this state is deaf, dumb, and blind, and 

just doesn't care.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC66 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Anonymous, The main point of this correspondence is that AMTRAK service through Springfield should stay on it's 

current 3,d Street routing. One of the primary goals in improved AMTRAK service should be to isolate 

passenger trains on routes independent of, or with, minimal freight train movement and competition. 

AMTRAK operating on the 3rd Street tracks and station stops without UP freight competition would be a 

great example. I do have an interest in railroads and passenger train service, having traveled most of 

AMTRAK's routes, and significant European rail travel including the truly high speed trains. Observing how 

different operations work, equipment types, and style of service has been a good experience. More 

specifically, I believe that passenger train travel and suburb-city commuter rail service is a very positive 

public asset. Futurewise, it is a vital necessity for the U.S. as energy resources and environmental impact 

concerns become more dominant. Again, a key factor in the Springfield rail study is the continuing success 

of AMTRAK's existing service with its increasing ridership numbers and as an important element in the 

faster trains project. Simply put: why spend a billion dollars in federal AMTRAK funding for main line track 

improvements to increase train speeds, reduce travel time, and improve on-time operating efficiency; and 

then throw it all away by putting AMTRAK into a freight congestion bottleneck in Springfield? The wants 

and needs of Springfield need to fit into the overall bigger picture of upgrading the states' Chicago-St. Louis 

AMTRAK service through the fast train development project. There is really not one good compelling 

reason to move AMTRAK operations from 3rd tolOth Street tracks, and there are many good reasons not to 

do it. 

The alternative presented was carried forward for detailed analysis and eliminated for 

reasons documented in the Final EIS.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC67 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Mueller, Mark Why not use the same money, that would be spent on the 10th st line, and move the rails out west of the 

city? Build a transportation hub next to the airport. This would not only bolster use of Abe Lincoln airport, 

but also Amtrak, Greyhound (which desperately needs a real terminal!), rental cars, taxi cabs & Springfield 

Mass Transit District could all be centralized. This would also eliminate traffic congestion in town & use the 

old rail beds for bike paths.

This alternative was reviewed during the study phase and eliminated from further 

consideration due to high construction cost, environmental impacts and railroad company 

opposition. 

SPIOC68 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Support Other 

Alternative

Tornatore, Gregory Corridor improvements that would result in a two hour trip time between Chicago and St. 

Louis is beyond the scope of this study. In a separate feasibility study, IDOT is evaluating 

the Chicago-St. Louis 220 mph High Speed Rail Express project concept. This service, at 

speeds up to 220 mph, may utilize existing rail corridors, a new corridor, or a combination 

of both, and could service to the Chicago-St. Louis high speed rail service that is being 

evaluated by this EIS.

I am writing to comment on the draft Chicago-St. Louis EIS. I am concerned with the portions of the 

document that address the portions of the route south of Springfield. The State of Illinois is currently 

conducting a feasibility study for a 220 mph high speed rail line that also includes this segment. I do not 

think that it would be prudent to go forward with the proposed land taking and investment in track and 

other improvements proposed in this segment of the UPRR route. Two other studies have already been 

completed which include this segment under the auspices of the Midwest High Speed Rail Association. 

While both looked at the UPRR alignment currently used by Amtrak, neither selected it. The problems with 

it include: > > * It is a number of miles longer than other historic rail routes, thus inherently slower. > * It is 

a strategic UPRR freight route which would be unsuitable for sharing with 220 mph trains, especially with 

the hourly, or better, service assumed in those other studies > * The state’s agreement with UPRR limits 

speed to 110 mph and a limited number of daily trains (not all of them even being allowed to operate at 

110 mph). > * It has significant curvature, which will limit trains to less than 110 mph, never mind future 

upgrade to 220 mph. > * Several miles through the Macoupin Bottoms are not suitable for adding a second 

track. > > On page 3-19 it is noted that there are three places in the corridor that alternatives alignments 

but, without explanation, it is stated that no alternatives are being considered for the rural areas. The same 

arguments used to justify consideration of alternatives in some other parts of the route would apply to the 

rural part of the route south of Springfield and would have met the purpose and need and would have 

scored well on the Tier 1 Objectives listed in Table 3.1-2, particularly in terms of such issues as length, 

travel time, operational issues, capital and operating costs, acres of right-of-way required, etc. Adding 

suitability for future upgrade as part of a 220 mph operation would make the existing route score very 

badly. > > In the Northeast Corridor Amtrak has recently developed what it calls a “stairstep” approach to 

implementing 220 mph high speed rail. This should be considered for Springfield-St. Louis as well. Making a 

major investment in double-tracking the current UPRR/Amtrak alignment would be inconsistent with that 

concept. My concern is that if a large investment is made in double tracking the UPRR for passenger 

operations it is likely to be very difficult to justify subsequent investment in another route for 220 mph 

operation. In truth, Illinois does not need two very closely parallel double track routes south of Springfield. I 

have no problem with moving forward with the segment north of Springfield; Illinois needs a double track 

railroad between Chicago and Springfield via Normal, whether a new route via Champaign is built, or not. > 

> The scope of the portion of the Tier 1 EIS covering the route south of Springfield should be revised to 

analyze a broader range of alignments and, perhaps, an evaluation factor added for suitability for future 

upgrade as part of a 220 mph operation. The other feasibility studies found very straight routes south of 

Springfield that have little or no freight operations (daytime freight curfews would be possible). To 

minimize costs those alignments would not need to be initially made free of grade crossings (as would 

eventually be necessary for operation at speeds above 110 or 125 mph). These alignments would bypass 

existing stations at Carlinville (the village’s population is about 6000; a stop could be established to serve 

the area a few mile to the east) and Alton (it should be replaced by a station more centrally located in the 

Illinois portion of the St. Louis metropolitan area). > > Finally, the major improvements that are planned for 

the segment through Springfield should be designed so that the 10th Street alignment can accommodate 

high speed trains coming from Champaign, and eventually become passenger-only (avoiding the need to 

mix trains designed for 220 mph operation with major freight train operations), with no at-grade crossings, 

with UPRR freights routed via the 19th Street alignment. The description of the alignment recommended in 

the Tier 1 EIS may well be general enough to cover this concept, although the description should be revised 

to allow for the possibility of splitting passenger and freight trains coming from Chicago on the UPRR route. 

Presumably, this concept would need to be analyzed in Tier 2.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC69 Tier 2 Support Other 

Alternative

Goodmen, Joeseph In spite of all the uproar over removal of Union Pacific RR tracks off of 3rd Street here in Springfield to 

appease the city fathers to spend billions that both the city and State of Illinois don't have in effor to 

accommodate high speed rail. Leave 3rd street right of way along. Union Pacific and Amtrak are 

establisthed there are are working great there. If traffic flow on streets is a big problem, then the city and 

IDOT might consider building two overhead bridges at half the cost of relocation of the Union Pacific to 

10th Street. The bridges could be at jefferson an carpenter streeet crossing at half the cost. PS Should Mit 

Romney be successful in November will teh money be available then.

The suggested alternative of keeping Union Pacific and Amtrak trains on 3rd Street was 

considered in the alternative screening process and was eliminated for the reasons 

described in the Final EIS.

SPIOC70 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Houston, J. Michael

Office of the Mayor

As mayor of the City of Springfield, I am writing this letter in Support of Alternative 2A for the Springfield 

High-Speed Rail Improvement Project. Alternative 2A was recommended in the Environmental Impact 

Study (ElS) conducted by Hanson Professional Services. The EIS recommended Alternative 2A because it is 

the safest route for rail to pass through our city, it is designed with fewer at-grade crossings which will 

increase and make easier the east-west traffic for both vehicles and pedestrians across the city, and it will 

allow for a city-wide "quiet zone" as trains pass through Springfield. The Illinois Department of 

Transportation (IDOT) has also recommended Alternative 2A to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). I 

am also enclosing a copy of a resolution from the City Council in support of Alternative 2A. A certified copy 

of the resolution will be sent by U.S. Mail. As someone who has attended numerous meeting since 2009 in 

our community on this subject, I can unequivocally voice the support of the vast majority of the people of 

our community for Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

upgrade to 0 mph. Several miles through the Macoupin ottoms are not suitable for adding a second 

track. > > On page 3-19 it is noted that there are three places in the corridor that alternatives alignments 

but, without explanation, it is stated that no alternatives are being considered for the rural areas. The same 

arguments used to justify consideration of alternatives in some other parts of the route would apply to the 

rural part of the route south of Springfield and would have met the purpose and need and would have 

scored well on the Tier 1 Objectives listed in Table 3.1-2, particularly in terms of such issues as length, 

travel time, operational issues, capital and operating costs, acres of right-of-way required, etc. Adding 

suitability for future upgrade as part of a 220 mph operation would make the existing route score very 

badly. > > In the Northeast Corridor Amtrak has recently developed what it calls a “stairstep” approach to 

implementing 220 mph high speed rail. This should be considered for Springfield-St. Louis as well. Making a 

major investment in double-tracking the current UPRR/Amtrak alignment would be inconsistent with that 

concept. My concern is that if a large investment is made in double tracking the UPRR for passenger 

operations it is likely to be very difficult to justify subsequent investment in another route for 220 mph 

operation. In truth, Illinois does not need two very closely parallel double track routes south of Springfield. I 

have no problem with moving forward with the segment north of Springfield; Illinois needs a double track 

railroad between Chicago and Springfield via Normal, whether a new route via Champaign is built, or not. > 

> The scope of the portion of the Tier 1 EIS covering the route south of Springfield should be revised to 

analyze a broader range of alignments and, perhaps, an evaluation factor added for suitability for future 

upgrade as part of a 220 mph operation. The other feasibility studies found very straight routes south of 

Springfield that have little or no freight operations (daytime freight curfews would be possible). To 

minimize costs those alignments would not need to be initially made free of grade crossings (as would 

eventually be necessary for operation at speeds above 110 or 125 mph). These alignments would bypass 

existing stations at Carlinville (the village’s population is about 6000; a stop could be established to serve 

the area a few mile to the east) and Alton (it should be replaced by a station more centrally located in the 

Illinois portion of the St. Louis metropolitan area). > > Finally, the major improvements that are planned for 

the segment through Springfield should be designed so that the 10th Street alignment can accommodate 

high speed trains coming from Champaign, and eventually become passenger-only (avoiding the need to 

mix trains designed for 220 mph operation with major freight train operations), with no at-grade crossings, 

with UPRR freights routed via the 19th Street alignment. The description of the alignment recommended in 

the Tier 1 EIS may well be general enough to cover this concept, although the description should be revised 

to allow for the possibility of splitting passenger and freight trains coming from Chicago on the UPRR route. 

Presumably, this concept would need to be analyzed in Tier 2.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC71 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Morrison, Steve This is a letter in support of the consolidation of rail traffic to the 10th street corridor in Springfield, IL. 

These are some of the reasons that I believe that option 2A is only viable options. The historic center of the 

city will no be marginalized by increased crossing delays, overpasses and loss of existing businesses that 

would disappear. These discussions have been going on a long time through many public forums during 

these "comment periods" elected officials representing our city, state, and county have made the will of 

their constituents known (option 2A). Additionally many others including the chamber of commerce have 

voiced similiar sentiment. Those leaders of our "medical district" have spoken about the detrimental effect 

of having the 3rd street be retained. In one voice they have said to relocate to 10th street, so that they may 

continue to be one of our only local drivers of growth through construction expansion and highpaying jobs 

afterward. While there would be additional infrastructre expenses involved to complete relocation (beyond 

federal dollars) all entities that would need to contribute have expressed a willingness to "put ther money 

where thier mouth is" and finish the job. And lastly in addition to the economic benefit that relocation 

would spawn immediatley the real benefit would follow closeley behind. Projects ranging from teh 

intermodal transportation cneter to the revitalization of older center city neighborhoods would soon 

follow. Sir, for these reasons, as well as the many others previously presented at different forums I ask you 

to do the will of the people with Springfield and choose alternative 2A for the future of our city. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC72 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Bastas, Bob and 

Yolanda

We agree with the Alternative 2A program for the high speed rail through the city of Springfield. If the 3rd 

Street program were instituted, it would devastate the downtown and medical communities. Thank for 

accepting our opinions.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC73 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

McMenamin, Joe 

City of Springfield

I wholeheartedly support the recommendation of the lOth Street Corridor as the designated highspeed rail 

route through the city of Springfie ld, Illinois. The se lection of the lOth Street corridor will undoubtedly 

spur economic growth for our city as well as preserve our current medical and business districts. Thank you 

for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC74 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Shepherd, Michael In regards to increasing freight train traffic on the 3'd Street corridor in Springfield, Illinois, it would be 

devastating to the city, mainly because it would require the building of overpasses up and down the line. 

One of these would come at the expense of the integrity of the Frank Lloyd Wright house at 3'd and 

Lawrence. An overpass there would block the southern view of this historic, architectural gem.

Also, increased train traffic on the 3'd Street corridor would prevent the medical district between Memorial 

Hospital and St. John's hospital from developing because of the technology that would be affected by the 

vibration of the freight trains. Therefore I strongly urge you to consider consolidating train traffic through 

the heart of Springfield onto the 10th Street corridor. Thank you for your attention in this vital matter.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC75 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Bringuet, Dennis

Ace Sign Co.

I am in favor of the plans to improve the 10th street Rail corridor . I agree with the IDOT study (EIS) . This 

will be a great opportunity to re-develop that area of Springfield, and limit any negative impact on the 3rd 

street tracks. As a Past president of Downtown Springfield Inc., Founding Trustee of Hoogland center for 

Arts , and President of a 72 year old Family Business, I feel this is the best option for this Great Capital City.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC76 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

McNeese, Wes In Springfield, IL, I strongly support the consolidation of the 3rd Street line onto 10th Street and 

improvement of the 19th Street corridor.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC77 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Radwine, David 

Sangamo Club

Sangamo Club, Springfield’s premier downtown private city club, supports Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 

Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT’s recommendation and believe this alternative is 

in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) 

corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community safer, better connected and more 

prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. 

The safety improvements alone are critical to our community’s residents and visitors since the proposed 

plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions and will provide nine new grade separations 

that will also make our community more connected due to reduce vehicle delays. The additional economic 

development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd Street tracks 

will allow our Medical District to grow and create construction and high-wage professional jobs through 

increased investment. Thank you for this opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC78 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Piland , Marilyn Please support Alternative 2A to combine all rail traffic away from 3rd Street and onto 10th Street in 

Springfield! This is critical to the development of the Medical District and also for Downtown Springfield. 

Thank you so much for helping Springfield to grow and make our city better!!

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC79 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hoda, Pat 

HieroGraphix 

Production, Inc.

As a business owner and a Chamber member, I wanted to voice my support for Alternative 2A, the proposal 

to consolidate 3rd Street rail onto 10th Street, and make safety and traffic improvements to 19th Street. 

We see many advantages to bringing improved rail service to Springfield, especially along the 10th Street 

line.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC80 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hinckley, Pam I am writing in support of the Illinois Department of Transportation’s plans to recommend Alternative 2A to 

the Federal Railroad Administration in reference to the Chicago to St. Louis High-Speed Rail Corridor 

Program. The High-Speed Rail Corridor Program is exciting, but what is more exciting is the in-depth 

planning and submission of Alternative 2A, so that travel hindrances to/between Memorial and St. John’s 

hospitals is reduced. Thank you on behalf of patients and caregivers for going to bat for them.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC81 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Steiner, Jill Please record my support of the Alternate 2A plan to address the trains through Springfield, IL. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC82 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Wise, Cheryl

GIS Solutions, Inc.

I am in support of consolidating all of the Springfield, Illinois rail traffic onto 10th Street. My first preference 

is to have all rail traffic move along the 10th Street corridor. My second preference is to consolidate the 3rd 

Street rail traffic onto 10th Street tracks with safety and traffic improvement being made to the 19th Street 

tracks.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC83 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Engelhart, Marla 

Lincoln Tower 

Apartments

I believe it is important to the community and its development that Alternative 2A, the proposal to 

consolidate 3rd Street rail onto 10th Street, is selected, as well as safety and traffic improvements to 19th 

Street corridor. Please give this your strongest consideration as it would ultimately benefit everyone.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC84 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

England, Kevin Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC85 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Piland, Marilyn Please support the Alternative 2A for the moving of all rail traffic off 3rd Street onto 10th Street Corridor. 

This is so critical for the development of our Mid-Illinois Medical District and also for the growth of 

Springfield, the state capitol. Thank you for making this decision in the interest of all business in the state!

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

I am writing in support of Alternative 2A of the Chicago to St. Louis High-Speed Rail Corridor Program to 

relocate the railroad tracks from the 3rd Street Corridor to the 10th Street Corridor in Springfield, Illinois. I 

have concerns that the other alternatives for railroad track location, if adopted, would have an adverse 

impact on the Mid-America Medical District and the safety of our community. In particular, the current 3rd 

Street tracks create the following issues affecting the safety of the citizens of our community: · The 3rd 

Street tracks separate Springfield’s two hospitals and the SIU School of Medicine · Ambulances bring 

trauma patients to the Springfield hospitals 24 hours a day, seven days a week from an 18-county region · 

Delays of minutes can mean the difference between life or death, recovery or permanent debilitation for 

trauma patients · Current railroad crossings create serious obstacles to the critical transportation of trauma 

patients, resulting in increased safety risks and unnecessary delays I strongly encourage the Illinois 

Department of Transportation recommend Alternative 2A to the Federal Railroad Administration based on 

the key advantages highlighted below. Alternative 2A would remove the railroad tracks from the 3rd Street 

Corridor and relocate them to the 10th Street Corridor. A series of overpasses and underpasses would be 

constructed on the 10th and 19th Street railroad tracks to allow cars to travel all the way across Springfield 

on those streets without ever being stopped by a train. A new passenger train station would also be 

constructed somewhere on the new 10th Street corridor. Advantages of Alternative 2A: · Achieves the 

project purpose and need while minimizing capital and lifecycle costs and impacts to social resources · 

Relocates traffic to the 10th Street corridor without potentially closing all crossings on 10th Street south of 

North Grand · Removes existing barriers and creates over- and underpasses for the busiest east/west 

streets along 10th and 19th Streets · Spurs economic growth and development along both the 3rd Street 

corridor and within the Mid-Illinois Medical District · Results in reduced noise, vibration, and traffic delays 

throughout Springfield · Will improve automobile and pedestrian safety at railroad crossings throughout 

the city. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment and your consideration.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC86 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Curtis, Ed

Memorial Health 

System

As President and Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Health System and Memorial Medical Center located Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

within the Mid-Illinois Medical District in Springfield, I am writing you to underscore our strong support for 

the Draft EIS Alternative 2A consolidating the Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. This 

is an issue of vital importance to the future of the medical industry and the entire city and region. The Third 

Street tracks currently bifurcate the Mid-Illinois Medical District, separating Springfield's two hospitals and 

the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Alternative 2A will dramatically improve emergency 

vehicular access to and between Memorial Medical Center and SI. John's Hospital. Both Memorial and SI. 

John's are teaching hospital affiliates of the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and partners in 

the Southern Illinois Trauma Center. As such, ambulances bring trauma patients to the hospitals 24 hours a 

day, seven days a week from an 18-county region. A large percentage of these trauma patients are victims 

of automobile accidents, heart attacks, strokes and other life-threatening conditions. Delays of minutes can 

mean the difference between life or death, recovery or permanent debilitation. The current, at-grade 

railroad crossings within the Medical District boundaries (Madison to North Grand Avenue) creates serious 

obstacles to the critical transportation of these patients, resulting in increased safety risks and unnecessary 

delays. Memorial strongly supports Alternative 2A because it will remove these existing barriers. 

Alternative 2A will remove and relocate the Third Street railroad tracks to the Tenth Street corridor and 

create overpasses and underpasses at major east/west arterial streets along Tenth and Nineteenth Streets. 

This will provide unimpeded west bound access to both hospitals from Interstate 55, state highways, roads 

and residents living on the east side of Springfield. Alternative 2A will also spur economic growth and 

development along both the Third Street corridor and within the Mid-Illinois Medical District. The Medical 

District master plan calls for growing the two hospital campuses towards one another along Carpenter 

Street to ultimately create an integrated medical community serving patients from central and southern 

Illinois. Alternative 2A will facilitate the realization of the Medical District vision, consistent with the Master 

Plan that re~ommends removal of the Third Street railroad tracks Eliminating the vibrations from train 

traffic will allow for the construction of medical facilities that house sensitive or highly-calibrated medical 

equipment along the vacated Third Street rail corridor within the Medical District. The vacated Third Street 

corridor is in the heart of the medical district and will allow Memorial, St. John's and the SIU School of 

Medicine to expand specialized services and realize the economic benefits that accompany such expansion. 

It will also encourage entrepreneurial development of medically-related and other support services such as 

the new County Market grocery store between Madison and Carpenter Streets. Alternative 2A will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improve vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

Improved safety and reduced traffic delays will greatly benefit health care patients, families, doctors, 

nurses, volunteers, students and employees of Memorial Medical Center, SI. John's Hospital and Southern 

Illinois University School of Medicine who travel to and from our health care facilities every day. 

Furthermore, relocating the passenger trains to the Tenth Street corridor will enable the creation of the 

long-planned multi-modal center along the Tenth Street corridor and serve as a catalyst for economic 

development in east Springfield. The railroad issue we are facing today will prove to have historic 

significance, comparable to the decision to locate the state's newest medical school in Springfield 40 some 

years ago. The creation of the SIU School of Medicine in 1970 has served as a catalyst for growth in our 

community's medical services sector ever since. Alternative 2A will have a similar catalytic effect for the 

next 40 years. We strongly urge IDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration to issue a Record of Decision 

in support of Alternative 2A. Thank you.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Williams, Robert

Springfield Police 

Department

As Police Chief for a community with thousands of emergency calls each week, I am writing you to express 

my support for Alternative 2A, a relocation of railway tracks to the 10th Street corridor in Springfield, IL. 

After reviewing several options, my decision for this recommendation is primarily based on safety; 

however, there were other factors that influenced my decision as well, with limited resources being a major 

contributor. The 10th Street corridor represents the safest option for our emergency response vehicles. The 

new corridor will also give our emergency responders more route options and quicker response times, 

when it is necessary to respond in such a manner. . The Springfield Police Department operates from a 

centralized location that is supported by three minor satellite locations. The bulk of all activities either 

begin or end from the downtown location, including most of the activities for the uniform (or Field 

Operations) Division. Relocating the railroad tracks t() the 10th Street corridor offers minimal interruption 

ofthese services. Therefore, from a strategic standpoint, as well as receiving multiple feedback from various 

stakeholders in the community, I support the move of rail traffic to the 10th Street corridor. I am also not 

surprised that, after months of public engagement, the community selected this option as well. Based on all 

the above rationale, I again urge the adoption of this plan for rail traffic in our great and historic city.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

railroad crossings within the Medical istrict boundaries (Madison to North Grand Avenue) creates serious 

obstacles to the critical transportation of these patients, resulting in increased safety risks and unnecessary 

delays. Memorial strongly supports Alternative 2A because it will remove these existing barriers. 

Alternative 2A will remove and relocate the Third Street railroad tracks to the Tenth Street corridor and 

create overpasses and underpasses at major east/west arterial streets along Tenth and Nineteenth Streets. 

This will provide unimpeded west bound access to both hospitals from Interstate 55, state highways, roads 

and residents living on the east side of Springfield. Alternative 2A will also spur economic growth and 

development along both the Third Street corridor and within the Mid-Illinois Medical District. The Medical 

District master plan calls for growing the two hospital campuses towards one another along Carpenter 

Street to ultimately create an integrated medical community serving patients from central and southern 

Illinois. Alternative 2A will facilitate the realization of the Medical District vision, consistent with the Master 

Plan that re~ommends removal of the Third Street railroad tracks Eliminating the vibrations from train 

traffic will allow for the construction of medical facilities that house sensitive or highly-calibrated medical 

equipment along the vacated Third Street rail corridor within the Medical District. The vacated Third Street 

corridor is in the heart of the medical district and will allow Memorial, St. John's and the SIU School of 

Medicine to expand specialized services and realize the economic benefits that accompany such expansion. 

It will also encourage entrepreneurial development of medically-related and other support services such as 

the new County Market grocery store between Madison and Carpenter Streets. Alternative 2A will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improve vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

Improved safety and reduced traffic delays will greatly benefit health care patients, families, doctors, 

nurses, volunteers, students and employees of Memorial Medical Center, SI. John's Hospital and Southern 

Illinois University School of Medicine who travel to and from our health care facilities every day. 

Furthermore, relocating the passenger trains to the Tenth Street corridor will enable the creation of the 

long-planned multi-modal center along the Tenth Street corridor and serve as a catalyst for economic 

development in east Springfield. The railroad issue we are facing today will prove to have historic 

significance, comparable to the decision to locate the state's newest medical school in Springfield 40 some 

years ago. The creation of the SIU School of Medicine in 1970 has served as a catalyst for growth in our 

community's medical services sector ever since. Alternative 2A will have a similar catalytic effect for the 

next 40 years. We strongly urge IDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration to issue a Record of Decision 

in support of Alternative 2A. Thank you.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Isringhausen, Geoff

Isringhausen Imports, 

Inc.

This comment is regarding the decision pending regarding the track consolidation in Springfield. Our family 

bought a building adjacent to the 3rd street UP track in 1984. We had 5 employees involved in our used 

vehicle business. We have spent the last 28 years building our business and today we have 70 full time 

employees with full benefits and 12 part time employees. We have been fortunate to acquire the franchise 

rights to sell some of the leading brands of vehicles in the world; Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Porsche. We 

started with virtually no money. But with hard work and perseverance we have grown our business and 

now own 3 city blocks in downtown Springfield where we have reinvested our earnings. We have returned 

millions of dollars of earnings to our city by employment and development all along the 3rd street corridor. 

The trains have been a part of our reality and we understood that fact from the beginning. However the 

idea of expanding the 3rd Street line with double tracks and the resulting increase in traffic delays or 

overpasses putting our business out of site to drive by traffic is frightening to consider. Car dealers depend 

on drive by traffic. Street frontage is critical. We would be devastated by this proposed development. 

Without the mitigating overpasses traffic count past our facility would decline. Any of these developments 

would reduce our business in vehicle sales and service causing layoffs of employees. The value of our 

properties would go down and we would likely not be able to hold them or maintain them at a high level. 

We have a niche business and our location downtown is a key component to our success. Moving our 

business to a new location would destroy the branding we have built over many years. I understand from 

the City of Springfield that our business is the top sales tax producer for the city. Our property taxes are 

also substantial. Expanding rail traffic on the 3rd street corridor would severely harm our business and 

hence our employees and community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hearring, Liz I agree with utilizing the alternative 2A to prevent delay in ambulance arrival to hospitals in Springfield. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC87 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anderson , Owen and 

Karen

My husband and I support(s) Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We 

applaud IDOT’s recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The 

recommendation to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will 

make our community safer, better connected, and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why 

Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our 

community’s residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of 

vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by 

reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important 

for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our 

Medical District and create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to 

provide comment on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC88 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Fustin, Ken

Springfield Fire 

Department

As Chief of the Springfield Fire Department, I strongly support Draft EIS Alternative Plan 2A consolidating 

the 3rd Street tracks onto the 10th Street rail corridor and improving the 19th Street tracks/corridor. It is 

the best plan for public safety and emergency response. By adding new grade separations at a number of 

locations along 10th Street, as proposed by IDOT's recommendation, the east/west travel capabilities of 

emergency services providers will greatly improve. First responders will face fewer delays waiting for trains. 

Arriving to crash victims or fire locations will be significantly improved. Fires increase in size very rapidly 

and time is critical to saving lives in medical emergencies. Removing train traffic from 3rd Street will also 

eliminate obstacles between the main fire station at 9th and Capitol and the Capitol Complex. Thousands of 

people work in state government buildings that are literally "across the tracks" from the fire station. Even 

though there is one underpass presently, it is nanow and when trains arrive it is frequently congested 

because drivers try to avoid nearby blocked crossings at other intersections. An influx of additional 

slowmoving freight trains will only exacerbate this problem. The current 68 At-Grade crossings will be 

reduced to 32, thereby lessening the chance of a train and vehicle crash by more than 50%. The department 

will continue to and improve upon providing top-rated service if the 3rd Street trains would be 

permanently moved to 10th Street. I strongly urge IDOT to issue a Record of Decision in support of 

Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC89 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

O'Shea, Paul

City of Springfield 

Office of Planning & 

Economic 

Development

Regarding the Draft EIS for the Chicago-SI. Louis Rail Corridor, in particular the Springfield Rail Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

Improvements Project, I support the recommendations of lDOT to consolidate the 3rd street rail corridor 

onto the 10th street rail corridor, as seen at the open house in Springfield, June 28th. As a member of the 

Public Officials Advisory Group and chairman of the RUDAT Follow-Up Committee, I

have worked on this project for several years. Thus, I know the value of this recommendation, since it 

generally includes reducing rail line effects by improving safety, reducing congestion, enhancing 

community livability and supporting commercial activity, as well as the following specific reasons: • 

Preserving the downtown from devastation due to gridlock of vehicular traffic at three rail lines, in 

particular at several at-grade rail crossings along 3,d street, where overpasses are more likely, due to 

physical limitations of building underpasses • 10th street underpasses are feasible and less unsightly and 

business-devastating than overpasses • Underpasses permit ease of traffic flow and lessen the east-west 

barrier effect • Fewer at-grade rail crossings decreases accidents & injury and provides cost savings to all • 

Reduce individual costs for all parties, due to shared right-of-way maintenance • Less capital and life cycle 

costs • Create citywide quiet zones by elimination of noise from train horns blowing • Opportunity for 

biking, walking, recreational and business Enh ancements at greenways • Less impact on environment and 

historic sites • Avoids dissecting the city's vital Mid Illinois Medical District and lessens impact to existing 

and planned development of medical facilities in this growing economic sector of the city • Less impact on 

delivery of emergency services by ambulance, fire and police vehicles • Accommodation of all rail traffic in 

one corridor because of right-of-way space available • Greater space availability for Multi-Modal 

Transportation Center (MMTC) • Favorable East Springfield development opportunities in neighborhoods 

adjacent to MMTC • Relocating the 19 th street rail corridor should be kept on the table for eventual 

implementation It is often said that as a city's core goes, so goes the entire city and the region. As the 

Capital City of our state, there is no better reason to keep the city's core strong, viable and attractive for 

every citizen of our state to be able to point to with pride.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC90 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Rogers, Glen D. Overwhelming solid evidence confirms what local citizens, business and political leaders have always 

known; that passenger and freight rail traffic should be rerouted from the Third (3"') Street corridor to the 

Tenth (10th ) street corridor in Springfield, Illinois. Springfield's Central Business District and its rapidly 

growing medical District would be severely damaged and destroyed beyond repair by increased rail traffic 

on the Third Street corridor. Even suggestions to mitigate such damages would in itself harm and damage 

these districts as much or more than the increase in rail traffic. Conversely, increased rail traffic on the 

Tenth (10th ) Street corridor would be beneficial to the City of Springfield and the neighborhoods in that 

area for the following reasons: • Those are the oldest and most run down areas of the city with many 

shacks and vacant, boarded-up properties. • Proposed new overpasses and/or underpasses in that area 

would actually improve the area and lead to increased commercial and business development in an area of 

the city that needs such improvements. It is our hope that the Illinois Department of Transportation will do 

every thing in its power to convince the Federal Railroad Administration that their final determination 

should be based solely on what is best for the citizens and businesses of the City of Springfield. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC91 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Schisler, Lori Although I no longer live near the 3rd street railroad tracks, I support the consolidation of the 3rd street 

corridor with 10th street. I work at 2nd and South Grand, and cannot imagine the safety and noise issues 

that we will endure if this doesn't occur. Am also so looking forward to this alternative becoming a reality in 

terms of the opportunity this gives the city to make the entire city of Springfield a train whistle quiet zone. 

When I lived at 4th and Broad Place, I prayed for a quiet zone and a bike trail every day. Prayers are still 

being lifted up!

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC92 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Whalen, Sharon Just sending along a note to encourage you and other key players to agree that 10th Street (and not 3rd 

Street) is the right place for high speed and freight trains to make their way through Springfield. The entire 

community is fearful that any other decision will devastate the downtown corridor --- which would be a 

travesty given the huge financial commitments that have been made by both private businesses and the 

State of Illinois.

Thank you for your attention to this vitally important matter.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC93 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Feipel, Sheila

AmeriCALL 

Communications

I support Alternative 2A. Thank you for your consideration. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC94 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Kriel, Jack I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT’s 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected, and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community’s 

residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our Medical District and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC95 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Mehl, Fredric and 

Cynthia

My wife Cynthia and I live in the Enos Park area of Springfield. We are among those who demonstrated with 

signs at the crossings along 3rd Street when we learned of the number of daily trains projected for the 3rd 

Street Corridor and the number of 600 foot long overpasses expected to be built. We were horrified at the 

thought of the number of trains passing through the Medical District, our downtown, and past the Dana 

Thomas House. We were stunned when we were told that Union Pacific and IDOT had come to an 

agreement and that nothing could be done. My wife and I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield 

Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT’s recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best 

interest of Springfield. The recommendation to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 

10th Street corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and more prosperous. There are 

numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements 

alone are critical to our community’s residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly 

reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel 

improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic development implications of 

Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased 

investment that will grow our Medical District and create construction and high-wage professional jobs. 

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC96 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Oxtoby, Caroline It's imperative for the proposed high speed rail site between St. Louis and Chicago in Springfield, IL to be 

located on 10th Street. This will allow for the continued revitalization of Springfield's downtown and 

adjacent medical district that has been in progress for several decades. Thank you so much for your 

consideration!

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC97 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Scheuermann, Cal I SUPPORT ALTERNATIVE 2A Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC98 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Rogers, Glen & Betty I do now and have ALWAYS supported Alternative 2A to consolidate rail traffic from the 3rd Street corridor 

to the 10th Street corridor in Springfield, Illinois for many good and valid reasons too numerous to itemize 

here.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC99 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Tucker, Gary I support Alternative 2A!!!! Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC100 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Miller, Lynn I strongly support alternative 2A for the rail consolidation to 10th street. This will preserve historic 

Springfield as well as the future of the medical district. Thank you for your support.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC101 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ernst, Donald I SUPPORT ALTERNATIVE2A WHICH WILL CREAT SAFETY, TRAVEL, AND IMPOREVEMENT OF QUALITY LIFE. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC102 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Higginbotham, 

Michelle

Coldwell Banker 

Commercial 

Devonshire Realty

As a member of the Springfield Advisory Committee, I want to express my support for Alternative 2A, which 

IDOT has recently recommended to the FRA. I have been involved with this process from the very beginning 

and was a founding member of the Grassroots Coalition for Consolidation, which held a series of rallies and 

other public events intended to educate and engage the members of the community. I believe the 

community has been speaking with one voice for some time now, and consolidating rail traffic onto the 

10th St. corridor is the only option that makes sense for the capital city. The Medical District, downtown 

Springfield, historic neighborhoods, Dana Thomas House, and many other critical areas would all be 

adversely impacted by additional train traffic on the Third St. corridor. Consolidation on 10th St. allows us 

many more opportunities for both commercial and residential growth in our city. I ask for your continued 

support of Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC103 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Phillips, Tim I support Alternate 2A for rail consolidation in Springfield to create safety, travel, and quality of life 

improvements.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC104 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Truax, Paul I support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I applaud IDOT’s 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected, and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community’s 

residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our Medical District and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC105 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Terry, Sue My Husband and I STRONGLY support Alternative 2A. This alternative will provide Springfield with an 

opportunity to not only survive, but to actually grow and prosper. Thank you for your time.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC106 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Knox, Judy I support Alternative 2A to consolidate rail traffic in Springfield. This is a very important issue for Springfield 

to maintain safety and quality of life in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC107 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Randolph, Roger I wish to announce my support for Alternative 2A for the high rail program. I just returned from Madison 

Wisconsin and was very impressed with their State Capitol and surrounding square. It is a facility which 

encourages people go gather. The location of the high speed rail in downtown Springfield in close proximity 

to the capitol complex will have the opposite effect. I appreciate your review of my comment.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC108 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Manes, Jim It is my understanding that you are the IDOT, Director of Public Transportation, and, therefore, you oversee 

the high speed rail project from Chicago to Saint Louis. I have lived in Springfield over 28 years and 

appreciate having an Amtrak station here in our town. But, I feel our community will be impacted 

negatively if the present Amtrak route is maintain for the high speed system. I am writing to ask for your 

support of the rail relocation for the high speed traffic. The rail transportation system has been studied, 

and city leaders, and most Springfield citizens prefer the traffic to be relocated from 3rd Street to 10th 

Street. By approval of this change the vehicular traffic that crosses town east/west will be less impacted, as 

will many businesses and historic sites near 3rd Street. I thank you for reading this request, and I hope to 

hear the project will move forward with the changed routing of passenger traffic.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC109 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stewart, Steve As a life long resident of Springfield, I am strongly in favor of Alternative 2A to consolidate rail traffic from 

3rd Street to the 10th Street area. Alternate 2 A, will make travel in and across the downtown area faster & 

safer and will allow business in the downtown area and the medical district to grow & employ more people. 

It would be especially helpful for the extremely important tourism and history area. I urge selection and 

funding of Alternative 2A for rail consolidation for Springfield. It will be the best solution for all of Illinois. 

Thank you for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC110 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Woomer, Anne I live in Springfield Illinois and I support the Alternative 2A proposal for consolidating the 3rd Street tracks 

onto 10th street. It seems to be the best option for our city. Thank you for considering what I think would 

be best for my community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC111 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ahlers, Gaye Thank you and the other staff at the Illinois Department of Transportation for recommending Alternative 

2A which in Springfield, Il would allow rail traffic to be consolidated to 10th Street from 3rd Street, while 

also making necessary changes to the 19th Street rail corridor, increasing safety. Alternative 2A will result in 

overall rail and vehicle traffic safety improvement for the City of Springfield, which will also stimulate more 

business and jobs in the Downtown area and in the developing Medical District, better environmental 

quality by eliminating horn noise and enhancing the historical character of the effected area, and will also 

aid in bringing more economic opportunity to the near east side with the construction of a multimodal 

center. Overall, this proposal if enacted will cause great improvements for the quality of life in Springfield. I 

appreciate the fact that you are moving forward with this initiative and I hope that you and IDOT will be 

successful in Alternative 2A’s implementation.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC112 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Shufeldt, Warren & 

Gabrielle

We support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We applaud IDOT’s 

recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The recommendation to 

consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our community 

safer, better connected, and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the 

preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our community’s 

residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions 

by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle 

delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. 

Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our Medical District and 

create construction and high-wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment 

on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC113 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hodel, Ross I am a resident of Springfield and a member of Central Baptist Church located at Fourth & Jackson Street. 

The educational wing of the church backs up to the current tracks and contains Children’s House day-care 

center and our Sunday School classrooms. I write because if high speed rail is consolidated along the 3rd 

Street corridor, it will literally mean the end of our church facility. Any widening of the current tracks or 

addition of more frequent high speed traffic would likely mean we would have to move the church. It also 

could create limited access and potentially unsafe conditions for our daycare children. I applaud the work 

of the current IDOT Director Ann Schneider. I have known of her high quality work in state government for 

many years; and I would further counsel you and her to support Option 2A moving 3rd Street traffic to the 

10th Street corridor. Thank you for effort on Springfield’s behalf.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC114 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Mitchell, Harry I am writing as a resident of Springfield Illinois to support Alternative 2A as the best alternative for 

consolidation of rail services in our city. This alternative best serves a wide range of needs including safety, 

traffic flow, community connectivity across east – west traffic routes, preservation of historic sites in 

central Springfield and protection of our valuable Medical District. As a citizen of Springfield and the state 

of Illinois, I fully support Alternative 2A as the alternative that best meets the needs of all parties involved. I 

encourage IDOT to support this alternative.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC115 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ernst, Lisa

The Real Estate Group

I support Alternative 2A to IDOT. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC116 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sables, Jan I am writing to give overwhelming support to Alternative 2A which involves both the 10th and 19th street 

corridors as defined in the studies and recommendations by the Illinois Department of Transportation. This 

plan meets and accomplishes most all of the criteria set forth as the intended goals for railroad relocation 

in our community. Thank you for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC117 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Mapes, Tim

Speaker Michael J. 

Madigan's Office

Please be advised that I would strongly recommend that IDOT and the FRA approve Alternative 2A for the 

relocation of the 3rd street railroad to 10th Street in Springfield, IL. I have personally attended 4 of the 

public hearings about this project. For many reasons, community development, the medical district, 

consolidation of the transportation to create an intermodal facility, future greenway space on the 3rd street 

railroad corridor, Alternative 2A is the right choice for Springfield. As a RU/DAT Member and local citizen, 

please add these comments as support for Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC118 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sale, Daniel 

Capital Area 

Association of 

REALTORS

Please find attached a comment letter from the Capital Area Association of REALTORS in regard to

IDOT’s Tier 1 Draft Environmental Impact Statement for high-speed rail service from Chicago to St. Louis

in support of the 10th Street Corridor (Alternative 2A).

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC119 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sewell, Kirk As a resident of Springfield, I am strongly in favor of Alternative 2A to consolidate rail traffic from 3rd Street 

to the 10th Street area. Alternate 2 A, will make travel in and across the downtown area faster & safer and 

will allow business in the downtown area and the medical district to grow & employ more people. It would 

be especially helpful for the extremely important tourism and history area. I urge selection and funding of 

Alternative 2A for rail consolidation for Springfield. Thank you for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC120 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dirksen , Julie A. I am requesting your support of Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I 

applaud IDOT’s recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The 

recommendation to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will 

make the Springfield community safer, better connected and more prosperous.

There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety 

improvements alone are critical to this community’s residents and visitors because the proposed plan will 

significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. This will also 

allow for travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays.

The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal 

of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our Medical District, create 

construction opportunities and high-wage professional jobs.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC121 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Malany, Lee

Advisory council, 

Rotarian Disaster 

Assistance Agency

There are only a few events in history that define what will be and significantly mode the future. The rail 

relocation in Springfield Illinois is one of those events. We are looking 100 year impacts where the future 

benefits are more important that the present costs or expediencies. It is not just the location of the rail, it is 

the cumulative sequencing and optimization of operative infrastructure that is trigger that will make the 

Chicago-St. Louis corridor an effective and efficient business-industrial-transportation platform for the 

State of Illinois. The edge matching of that platform at Springfield will have a profound impact on the 

quality of the whole system not just the development of Springfield. Following the 10th Street corridor is 

the best match and I support and encourage alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC122 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Krager, Don

Bank & Trust 

Company

I am writing in support of Alternative 2A for the Springfield Railroad Relocation Project. In my role as senior 

lender for a Springfield area community bank, I can assure you that this project has far reaching 

implications to the future of the Springfield community. The advantages I see in the 2A alternative, include: 

Make all portions of Springfield safer by reducing the number of vehicle collisions. · Better connect our 

community by creating better cross traffic and reducing vehicle delays. · Eliminate horn noise by 

establishing a quite zone in the city of Springfield. · Allow the Medical district to grow together and create 

good paying construction and high-wage medical jobs throughout Springfield. · Minimize the impact of 

Springfield’s older residential neighborhoods, including fewer residential and commercial displacements. · 

Preserve the character of historic downtown Springfield as well as other historic sites throughout the city. · 

Allow for construction of a new train station and transit center (multi-modal) on the 10th Street corridor 

which will help spur much needed commercial and residential development on the near east side of 

Springfield. · Enhances the quality of life along the 19th Street corridor by creating a quite zone and 

reducing traffic delays. Thank you for your consideration of my concerns.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC123 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Knight-Anderson, 

Ruth

Near South 

Neighborhood 

Association

The Near South Neighborhood Association supports IDOT's recommendation to consolidate the 3rd 

Street(Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor. This will keep the Capitol area and Downtown 

connected for tourism and business uses . Using the 10th street corridor would allow for better over all 

planning for economic development and safety ; as opposed to the likely approach at 3rd of inserted 

over/under passes and walled off streets. Please take this opportunity to keep Amtrack as a welcome and 

valued member of our community by adopting the recommedation 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail 

Improvements Project. Michelle Gillen: President Dave Dillavou: Vice President Leslie Dinora: Secretary 

Ruth Knight-Anderson: Treasurer.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC124 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Cavanagh, Tom

Sangamon County 

Treasurer and Capital 

Township Supervisor

I strongly support the 10th St. option for the above referenced project. Sincerely, Thomas K. Cavanagh, 

Sangamon County Treasurer and Capital Township Supervisor

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC125 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Chiles , Phil I just wanted to indicate my support for 10th Street option, known as“Alternative 2A." I believe it is the 

rnost responsible choice for expanded rail service. It would have the least negative impact on residents, 

businesses, historical and cultural sites, the medical district, and the overall economic health of the City of 

Springfield. Alternative 2A is also the preferred alternative of the Chamber of Commerce, and of Downtown 

Springfield, Inc. Please add my supporting comments to your report.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC126 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Johnson, Sharon Mr. Shacter, as a life-long resident of Springfield, I’ve watched the decline and rebirth of Springfield’s 

downtown area. I’ve also seen our medical community grow from two hospitals to one of central Illinois’ 

greatest medical assets.

Alternative 2A will help ensure that redeveloper and city efforts in our downtown area over the past two 

decades will continue and that new economic development opportunities won’t be halted or scaled back 

due to the use of 3rd St as the main rail corridor.

Alternative 2A also will protect the Medical District from the disruption of scores of freight traffic traveling 

through an area that has brought new medical resources and technology, plus hundreds of new jobs to 

Springfield.

Please help us promote the decision that is best for Springfield. Thank you.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC127 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Collins, Josh Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Draft EIS for the Tier 2 study. I support Alternative 2A 

since it represents the best option for Springfield. This will make all sections of our community safer, it will 

better connect the east and west sides of town with 9 new grade separations and the removal of an entire 

corridor, it will improve our quality of life with a quite zone and it will improve our economic climate by 

protecting our Medical District, our historic downtown business district, many of our tourism sites and will 

improve overall transportation that impacts our economy. Thank you again and please let the record show, 

I support Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC128 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Bailey, Craig This is a message from Craig and Carol Bailey, 1158 N. 4th St., Springfield, IL 62702. We own this home and 

have lived here since April, 1978, We have both attended at least 4 public meetings about this railroad 

issue, and have at least twice attended official federal hearings and each filled out comment cards twice. I 

(Craig) have health problems that prevent us from coming to the 8/15/12 hearing. We support 

consolidating all railroad traffice through Springfield on to the 10th Street tracks. The traffic delays and 

necessary overpasses to make the 3rd Street corridor work for high speed traffic and additional freights 

could be lethal to business downtown. Use of the 3rd Street tracks would also prevent the Medical District 

from expanding and could eventually force both Memorial and St. John's hospitals to close their current 

locations and move. 10th Street is definitely best for Springfield, as long as more underpasses are built 

under the 10th St. tracks.

Thank you.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC129 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Van Fossan, Eloise and 

Donald 

Please add our names to the list of Springfield citizens who think the only option is to consolidate all rail 

traffic on the 10th Street Corridor. Additional rail traffic is unthinkable on the 3rd street track.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC130 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Jones, Linda As a Sangamon County citizen who works in Springfield every day, it makes the most sense to me to 

support option 2A for ease of traffic flow, the least disruption to downtown businesses, and growth of the 

Springfield community. I hope this is the option chosen by government to support high speed rail in our 

community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC131 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Zahn, Michael D. 

International Union of 

Operating Engineers 

Local 965

After review of the Draft EIS on the Springfield Rail Improvements Project, I am writing in support of 

Alternative 2A which will consolidate the 3rd Street Rail Corridor with the 10th Street Rail Corridor on 10th 

Street. By far, Alternative 2A is the best option for the City of Springfield and its citizens. Alternative 2A will 

enhance the quality of life in Springfield by making the community a safer place to live, eliminating horn 

noise, reducing vehicle delays and preserving Springfield’s history treasures. This alternative will also aid in 

the expansion and success of the Medical District in Springfield. Thanking you in advance for your 

consideration of my opinion.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC132 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Antonacci, Gianni and 

Sarah 

I am writing on behalf of my husband and I, and our three children. We live at 2160 S. Glenwood Ave. in 

Springfield, IL, just blocks away from the Third Street railroad tracks. I am writing to ask you and all other 

powers that be to please move all “high speed” rail, or increased rail traffic, to the 10th Street tracks. My 

husband and I are both Springfield natives and we have made a very conscious decision to live in the City of 

Springfield proper and not in any outlying suburb or subdivision. We feel very strongly that keeping the 

city’s center alive will keep Springfield alive for generations to come. I fear that if the railroad traffic on the 

Third Street tracks were to increase, it would destroy what is left of these neighborhoods that are still 

passes through neighborhoods to the south and north of downtown would isolate certain blocks, making 

them undesirable for resale, but plenty desirable for transient rental property. It would also destroy these 

work that has gone on in our downtown area in the past 10 to 15 years to return the area to relevancy 

its infancy, would be stunted and millions of dollars of revenue would be lost for our city. I understand that 

the 10th Street location is not perfect. In my mind, no location, other than routing around Springfield, 

would be perfect. And, I understand that plan is too costly. However, there are some benefits to locating 

hub located along the 10th Street tracks could bring a much-needed economic boost to the east side of 

Springfield. Please, take into consideration the future of our city, the loyalty of our residents and the 

possibility of economic growth when making the final decision.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC133 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Roulson, Lee & Sandra As citizens of Springfield, IL, we wish to encourage you to support and endorse the Tenth Street Corridor for 

the High Speed Rail route through Springfield. This is a decision that is going to impact Springfield for the 

next 50 years. The additional cost of rerouting to Tenth Street is minimal considering the long term effect. 

Thank you for your support.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC134 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stephens, Judy and 

Harvey

We were not able to attend the hearing in Springfield last Wednesday to voice our thoughts regarding 

railroad relocation. As long time Springfield residents we've had an opportunity to "live with" rail traffic 

bisecting our community. We are adamant in our support of consolidating rail traffic ON THE 10TH STREET 

CORRIDOR. Additional traffic on 3rd Street track will cause irreparable damage to Springfield, as well as 

specific sites ie: the Medical District, Dana Thomas House, and many privately owned businesses (which 

add vitality to our downtown). Include us with the many other citizens who support relocation on 10th 

Street.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC135 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sumner, Martha Many of us in Springfield are following with interest the discussion of the rail corridor placement. After 

reading proposals and attending hearings, our family's analysis is that the 10th Street location would best 

serve this city. Expanding tracks in the current location would damage the crucial and growing medical 

services, complicate tourist activity including the Abraham Lincoln Museum and would set the city back in 

its ongoing work to revitalize the downtown area. Please add my family's voices to many who hold this 

view. Thank you for your time and consideration. Martha and David Sumner and family

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC136 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Chronister, Linda We were unable to attend the railroad relocation hearing in Springfield, Wednesday, August 15. However, 

we sincerely believe that the rail traffic in Springfield should be consolidated on the 10TH STREET corridor. 

Additional traffic on the 3rd Street track would cause irreparable damage to the Dana Thomas House, The 

Old State Capital and other historic buildings.It will also adversely affect the medical district and the 

location of many existing businesses, as well as the revitalization of the downtown Springfield area. 3In this 

economy, we do not believe any of these areas can afford the damages caused by loss of business and 

tourism income and/or the relocation costs involved.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC137 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Chronister, Grady I think locating the high speed rail traffic on the 3rd st corridor in Springfield, Il would be a tragedy. Please, 

please, approve the 10 th

street corridor ad the locate.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC138 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Singleton, James and 

Mary Anne

We were out of state temporarily, so could not attend the hearing this past Wednesday, Aug. 17th. My wife 

and I both feel that the rail traffic must be channeled onto the 10th street corridor, to preserve the center 

of the city, and, particularly, the medical district. which has become very important for central Illinois. This 

also is key for fire and emergency services, and for quality of life in the city.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC139 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Simpson, Nancy & Bill I regret not being able to attend the last hearing here in Sprinfield this past Wednesday. BUT we do want 

you to know that my husband and I both feel that the rail traffic in Springfield should absolutely be 

consolidated ON THE 10TH STREET CORRIDOR. Additional traffic on the 3rd Street track would do 

irreparable damage to the Dana thomas House, the Medical Center and our revitalization of Downtown 

Springfield. Please add our voices to the many who feel the same.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC140 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dimond, Richard I am writing on behalf of myself and my wife, Barbara Cass and in regard to railroad relocation. We both 

live at 825 S. State St. in Springfield. While we both believe that relocating the high speed rail completely 

outside the city, such as running it along I-55, we realize that this is not an option. Therefore, we want to 

register our support for moving the tracks to the 10th Street corridor. Thank you for your attention and for 

taking note of our support for this alternative.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC141 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Kelsheimer, Judith A. I am writing to support IDOT Alternative 2A to divert railroad traffic to the 10th Street corridor in 

Springfield. This historic opportunity may be the last chance to make such a dramatic improvement to the 

safety and unity of Springfield's unique historic and cultural community. You are familiar with all the 

reasons advanced which make this the best possible plan to prepare for the changes to come.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC142 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Logue, Anne Please support the 10th St corridor for Springfield's rail project. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC143 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Donels , Bill and Sue We support rail relocation to the 10th St. Corridor in Springfield. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC144 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Rogers, Barbara I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC145 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Morrison, Mary I never write letters but I am definitely in support of Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail 

Improvements Project for Springfield, Illinois. This moves train traffic and high speed rail to 10th street and 

out of the center of our city. This is better for all citizens and

will make our community much safer, provide opportunities for economic growth, provide safer and more 

efficient vehicle traffic flow, and unifies our city. Springfield thanks IDOT for listening to our community 

voices, its leaders, embracing the environmental impact studies, and giving their recommendation to the 

Federal Railroad Administration (FDA) to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th 

Street corridor. There are numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. 

The safety improvements alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because the proposed 

plan will significantly reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. This 

will also make travel improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic development 

implications of Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for 

increased investment that will grow our Medical District and create construction and high-wage 

professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our 

community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC146 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Cook, Emil As a member of the Springfield engineering community, I am strongly in favor of Alternative 2A to 

consolidate rail traffic from 3rd Street to the 10th Street area. Alternate 2A, will make travel in and across 

the downtown area faster & safer and will allow business in the downtown area and the medical district to 

grow & employ more people. It would be especially helpful for the extremely important tourism and history 

area of our City. I urge selection and funding of Alternative 2A for rail consolidation for Springfield. It will be 

the best solution for all of Illinois. Thank you for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC147 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stephens, Mary Beth While I live on the west side of Springfield, I frequently drive downtown and must cross Springfield to coach 

a swim team near Southeast HS. The boys who swim on that team drive from Springfield HS, west of the 3rd 

street tracks, to the Eisenhower pool, located immediately south of Southeast HS. I realize you have 

received innumerable letters and emails with a wide variety of opinions regarding consolidating rail traffic 

on the 10th street tracks. I would like to add my "two cents worth." Teenage boys already have higher 

insurance rates than teenage girls due to their statistics regarding driving habits. Allowing expansion of rail 

traffic on the 3rd street line, while traffic also increases on the 10th street tracks will invariably cause these 

teenage swim team members to rush to their after school practices. This will increase the likelihood of a 

ticket at the very least, an accident at the worst. While they must cross all three rail lines to get to the pool, 

consolidating rail traffic on one line, with the requisite under and overpasses, will allow them to continue 

to arrive at my practices without undue stress and resulting problems. Thank you for considering teenage 

boys and their efforts to be better swimmers by consolidating rail traffic on the 10th Street corridor.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC148 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

O'Brien, Thomas I want to add my support to the issue of rail relocation to 10 street in Springfield. Doing so is of the highest 

importance to the long term benefit to Springfield. Not only will avoiding traffic interruption through 

central points in town be accomplished, but frequent rail movements through the medical district on the 

near north side of downtown will disturb sensitive medical instrumentation and marginalize the important 

work that will otherwise be realized by research and treatment there. Rail traffic should be moved from the 

3rd street corridor to 10th street in Springfield

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC149 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Whiston, Brian

Crawford, Murphy & 

Tilly Inc.

We are writing in support of Alternative 2A as the recommended corridor for High Speed Rail through 

Springfield. Consolidation of the 3rd Street and the 10th Street rail corridors through Springfield to a single 

corridor location at 10th Street is extremely important to the future of our community. With the increasing 

demand for moving freight by rail and planned high speed passenger rail service, Springfield will see a 

significant increase in rail traffic. Without the proper grade separation at the railway/roadway 

intersections, the increased rail traffic will cause significant traffic delays and safety could be compromised. 

Grade separations at these intersections is impractical along the third street corridor due to the proximity 

of buildings and other physical features. However grade separations are feasible along 10th Street. 

Crawford, Murphy & Tilly has been a Springfield business for 66 years and we care very much about the 

long term prosperity of our community. Therefore, we wish to express our strong support for consoiidation 

of rail traffic along the 10ih Street corridor.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC150 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Van Meter, Andy

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC151 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Goleman, Andy

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC152 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Fulgenzi, John 

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC153 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

, 

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC154 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sausaman, Daniel

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC155 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ratts, Jason

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC156 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Forysth, Abe 

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC157 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Mendenhall, David

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC158 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Boyster, Chris 

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC159 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Musgrave, Sarah

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC160 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

O'Neill, John 

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC161 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Krell, Tim

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC162 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Briggity, Kimberly

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC163 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Davsko, Sue

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC164 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Smith, Todd

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC165 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Barnes, Sondra For the good of the Medical Community and the Tourist Industry in Springfield, I prefer that the tracks be 

down the 10th Street Corridor. I believe that having the tracks running down the 3rd Street corrider is 

already too disruptive to business and traffic in downtown Springfield. 3rd Street trains are an idea whose 

time has come and gone!

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC166 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Levalley, John Please relocate rail in Springfield from the 3rd street track line to the 10th street track line. Heavier trail 

traffic along 3rd street will destroy the inner city because there are almost no feasible safe crossings, bisect 

and undermine a medical district by making it nearly impossible to get from one hospital complex to the 

other, split well established neighborhoods across the entire city.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC167 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Isringhausen, Jennifer

Isringhausen Imports

I am in favor of locating the high speed rail on 10th street NOT on 3rd. The increased usage would be 

devastating to our family business which employs over 70 people. Two of our buildings sit right next to the 

tracks. It is not right to run more & more trains right through the heart of our downtown. Make it a green 

space that would enhance the quality of life for our citizens. Thank you!

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC168 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Fulgenzi, Linda

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC169 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Montalbano, Sam

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC170 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ruzic, Rose

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC171 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sam, 

Snell

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC172 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Bunch, Clyde

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC173 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Good, Jim

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC174 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hall, Craig 

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC175 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stumpf, Greg

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC176 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Moore, Tim

Sangamon County 

Board Office

I am writing to underscore my strong support for Draft EIS Alternative 2A, which would consolidate the 

Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. I support Alternative 2A because it will 

significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays throughout Springfield and improved vehicular and 

pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. 

It will better connect our community, by removing impediments to cross community travel with the 

construction of additional underpasses. Alternative 2A will also eliminate train horn noise by establishing a 

quiet zone in the city of Springfield. Alternative 2A will spur economic growth and development along the 

Third Street corridor, be a catalyst for economic development in East Springfield as well as within the MidIllinois Medical District. I strongly urge the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad 

Administration to issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thanks you for your time and 

consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC177 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Logue, Anne I am writing as a constituent of Springfield IL who lives on the north end here in Springfield. I support the 

10th st corridor

consolidation plan rather than the 3rd st which I believe would harm the city's economy and tear up 

businesses that need

daily traffic to survive.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC178 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Halstead, Janet

Frank Lloyd Wright 

Building Conservancy

It was a pleasure meeting you at the Illinois Higb Speed Rail public hearing in Chicago on August 9. The 

Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy is the national advocacy organization formed twenty-three years 

ago to protect and preserve the remaining works of Frank Lloyd Wright. As I indicated to you and John 

Oimoen in our brief conversation, since 2009 we have been deeply concerned about the impact of the 

Chicago - St. Louis Higb Speed Rail Proposal on the enviromnental setting, structural integrity, and aesthetic 

enjoyment of the Dana-Thomas House in Springfield, illinois. The Dana-Thomas House is an Illinois cultural 

treasure and a National Historic Landmark. The possible expansion of rail service on the Third Street rail 

corridor was a serious threat to this extraordinary piece of architecture, its 100 pieces of original furniture, 

250 art glass windows and 200 art glass Iight fixtures. We were very glad to note that the Tier 2 Study for 

Springfield recommends Alternative 2A/2B (the Tenth Street corridor) as a consolidated main rail route for 

the city, thereby moving the rail traffic currently on the Third Street corridor to an expanded Tenth Street 

routing. We support that recommendation. That plan will benefit greatly the Dana-Thomas House as a 

premiere Illinois cultural site, but it will also benefit its surrounding neigbborhood and the city of 

Springfield. We strongly encourage IDOT to move forward with this recommendation and urge the Federal 

Railroad Administration to take the decision to implement the Tenth Street (Alternative 2A) 

recommendation for Springfield. We also encourage the financial resources to be provided to ensure that 

this plan can be realized.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC179 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Nicholas, 

Drum

As a long term member of the Isringhausen Imports family I would ask you to not make a decision regarding 

the 3,d street high speed rail plan that would devastate this company, all those who work here and the 

downtown community as a whole. I am certain that using the 3,d street corridor would greatly reduce our 

ability to conduct business as an automotive retailer. Additionally, many other retail establishments, 

istorical sites and places of business would also be effected in a negative way by either being displaced our 

forced to close. I am convinced that alternative 2A, the use of the loth street corridor, will have the most 

positive impact on our business and our community as a whole. I ask you to support alternative 2A to the 

FRA. Thank you for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC180 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Farmer, Michael

City of Springfield 

Office of Planning and 

Economic 

Development

On behalf of the Springfield, Illinois Office of Planning and Economic Development (OPED), please consider 

adopting the recommendations put forth by Hanson Professional Services with respect to their 

Environmental Impact Study findings for routing increased passenger and freight rail traffic through this city 

off of the "Third Street Corridor" and onto the "10th Street Corridor" or Recommendation entitled 2A. This 

office is in total agreement with Hanson's Recommendation 2A and respectfully urges the FRA move 

expeditiously for approval. OPED's rationale for requesting FRA approval of this sensible solution is based 

on three primary factors: --Enhanced safety for the citizens and visitors of Springfield. An impactful 

reduction of at grade crossings will ensure smooth flow of traffic for pedestrians, automobiles, trucks, and 

vital health and safety vehicular delivery services. --The noise reduction caused by the elimination of 

continual train whistles blaring into adjacent neighborhoods and public spaces, will drastically, improve the 

quality of life in Springfield and add to its natural beauty and audio serenity. --Finally, Recommendation2A 

"fulfills the project purpose and need with the lowest total cost while minimizing environmental impacts." 

While riot uppermost in prioritization, lower cost makes this option even more viable and justifiable. Again 

the OPED appreciates your thoughtful consideration and ultimate approval of Recommendation 2A and 

looks forward to learning of your decision. Feel free to contact me with any questions or issues.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC181 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Barker, Robert

Barker Real Estate

My name is Robert Barker and I am a member of Downtown Springfield, Inc. I am also a Downtown 

property owner who is actively involved in redevelopment. I am writing to express my strong support for 

the Tenth Street relocation recommendation for the highspeed rail corridor in Springfield. Downtown 

Springfield began its revival almost 30 years ago under the first administration of Mayor Houston. A 

combination of public and private entities have preserved and restored dozens of historic buildings in the 

downtown area. Many of these buildings date back to the Lincoln era. Were the high-speed rail corridor to 

remain on Third Street, milch of this work would be spoiled due to increased traffic congestion, noise, 

vibration and the addition of unsightly overpasses. Downtown Springfield is not just a collection of historic 

buildings: It is the center of State Government offices, it contains a vibrant residential community, and it is 

a major restaurant and entertainment center for the entire community. It also is home to the world-class 

Abraham Lincoln Museum and Library, as well as the Old State Capitol, which was the site of Lincoln's 

House Divided speech, as well as Barack Obama's announcement of his run for the presidency. A Third 

Street high-speed rail corridor would severely and negatively impact Downtown's appeal as a residential 

and entertainment area. I encourage you to follow the Tenth Street recommendation.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC182 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Castir, Mike

Isringhausen Imports

I have worked downtown for 25 years alongside the railroad tracks here at Isringhausen Imports. 

Isringhausen has always supported this community and its employees in many ways over the years, and is 

very dependent on this location for its survival. I believe the 3rd street alternative for the high speed rail 

would devastate our business and would be harmful to the medical, historical and general business

districts downtown. I support Alternative 2A to the FRA and ask that you support this measure, to improve 

livability in our community as a whole.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC183 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 

Isringhasen Imports

I have been an employee of Isringhausen Imports for 8 years. This company has provided for myself and my 

family as well as many other families for over 25 years. Putting the high speed rail on the 3rd street corridor 

would not only hurt me and my family, but many others who are employed here. Please don't destory a 

part of downtown history. I support Alternative 2A to the FRA and ask that you will do the same. Thank You.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC184 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Carver, Michael I am a full time employee at a successful business located right next to the 3rd street railroad tracks in 

downtown Springfield. I feel that the 3fd street option for high speed rail would have a negative effect not 

only on the business I am employed with but also the medical and historic districts and the people they 

employ and service. I urge you to support the Alternative 2A to the FRA as I and so many others directly

affected by this do. Thanks for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC185 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Heimlich, Charles I am a full time employee at a successful business located right next to the 3rd street railroad tracks in 

downtown Springfield. I feel that the 3,d street option for high speed rail would have a negative effect not 

only on the business I am employed with but also the medical and historic districts and the people they 

employ and service. I urge you to support the Alternative 2A to the FRA as I and so many others directly 

affected by this do. Thanks for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC186 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sanderson Jr., Richie I am a full time employee at a successful business located right next to the 3rd street railroad tracks in 

downtown Springfield. I feel that the 3,d street option for high speed rail would have a negative effect not 

only on the business I am employed with but also the medical and historic districts and the people they 

employ and service. I urge you to support the Alternative 2A to the FRA as I and so many others directly 

affected by this do. Thanks for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC187 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, 

Isringhausen Imports

I am currently employed at Isringhause Imports, located in Springfield, IL. As you may already know, our 

location is on Jefferson Street and is one of the areas in consideration for the high speed rail. Personally, I 

don't support this and believe this could have a negative effect downtown historic character. Springfield, Il 

takes great pride in it's history and keeping important monuments and buildings relevent to their time 

period as well as the surrounding areas. This rail could pose a threat to our historic past by shadowing areas 

of importance. This could really become an issue for nostalgic reasons. Isringhausen Imports has always 

been an important aspect of Springfield and its community. we have always made generous donations to 

organizations to help improve Springfield and those who inhabit it. We are know for being her on Jefferson 

Street and feel dependat on this location to thrive. The high speed rail would prove to be a threat to 

Isringhausen Imports by shadowing our business with the 3rd Street rail. The only other option for us would 

be to relcate, which would be a huge investment that is unnecessary and easliy avoidable on your part. The 

construction of the rail on 3rd Street should be avoide for many reasons. Our motto "Our priority is you" 

could be harmed by this obstruction. It would be nearly impossible to keep our customers happy when 

concrete dust is constantly scratching our cars. The historic nature of downtown Sprignfield should remain 

untouched by the rail at all costs. Preserving histor is much more important than a high speed rail. The 

Springfield Rail Improvement Project chose 10th Street and 19th Street for a reason and left downtown 

alone.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC188 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Aiello, Joe I am writing to express my concern with the consolidation of the 3rd and 10th street rail corridors. We have 

been privelidged in Springfield to have the rail access that has helped to build our community, our county 

and our country. Unfortunately, as the transportation industry changes, so must we. As we move forward 

to a final decision, it is clear that commerce and vehicle transportation patterns will be affected. That's 

progress towards an end that will benefit many more outside our community. I've been blessed to have 

worked in downtown Springfield for 28 years, 8 years on 4th Street and 20 years on 9th Streer. Both jobs 

have been less than 200 feet from the 3rd and 10th street corridors. It is my opinion the best alternative 

would be the 10th Street corridor. While both locations have their negatives, the 10th Street corridor has 

less of a negative impact on commerce and it doesn't rip the heart out of the downtown area. The rail 

helped to build this country, don't let it destroy our downtown. Thank you for considering my views.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC189 Tier 1 and 

Tier 2

Support Preferred 

Alt

Grieser, Dale This is in regard to the location of the high speed rail road tracks through Springfield Illinois (including other 

tracks). I believe the Alternative 2A to be the best choice for the good of Springfield. However, I have never 

thought building a high speed rail line betwen St. Louis and Chicago was a good idea. I think it is a big waste 

of public funds. I hope it never happens. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC190 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stratton, Nicholous For a variety of compelling reasons, I support the 10th Street Solution which calls for consolidation of the 

tracks on the 10th Street Corridor.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC191 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Brissenden, Phyllis I want to give my opinion on the rail relocation in Springfield. I believe it would be a huge mistake, even a 

disaster for Springfield to put the rail lines down 3rd Street. It would cut the town in two. It would badly 

hurt businesses east of 3rd Street. It would all but destroy the architectural treasures we have in the Frank 

Lloyd Wright's Dana Thomas House - vibration from the rail traffic would hurt the foundation and access 

would be much curtailed. We have a medical center that all of centrail Illinois and consolidation of rail 

traffic on 3rd street would cut it in half with our hospitals on each side. The 10th Street location makes 

much more sense and gives opportunity for more development of businesses around the new passenger 

depot. Thank you for you consideration. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC192 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Corkery, Richard This letter is to express my support for Alternative 2A which consolidates rail traffic in Springfield from the 

3rd street to the 10th street, while making safety and travel improvements to the 19th corridor. The 

support of Alternative 2A means much for the safety and well being for the citizens of Springfield. Thank 

you for your time and consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC193 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dresch, Tim I have worked at Isringhausen Imports for five years and I love the job. Good people and friends. I think the 

railroad idead should be moved to 10th Street because it will shut a lot of businesses down due to having to 

go around the wall to get somewhere. Hospitals are going to be harder to get to which isn't something that 

should be like that. I am hoping you switch to 10th Street.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC194 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hamle, Mike I support Alternative 2A and I think the downtown area is far to historic for high speed rail. Locate on the 

out skirs of City.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC195 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Arnold, Kenel I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC196 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Farrell, Jennifer I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC197 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hannah, LaVerne I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC198 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Turner, A. I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC199 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Langfelder, Josh

Sangamon County 

Recorder

I am a supporter of the 10'h street solution. This solution will make a better connect for the City of 

Springfield which will also reduce the number of vehicle collisions. Springfield has numerous historic sites. 

The 10th street solution will preserve not only the character of the city but these sites as well. The 10th 

street solution is best for the residents, visitors and the city in general.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC200 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Bilyu, Bruce I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC201 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Compton, Janet I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC202 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

McConley, Donald Please accept this letter in support of 10th Street rail corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC203 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Thernton, Robert I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC204 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Lewis, Tom I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC205 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hichinon, Mona I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC206 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Pratt, Casey I hereby support the 10th Street corridor as the most viable, conducive, and appropriate option for railroad 

traffic through this community. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC207 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Davis, Brian I am writing today in suppport of the consolidation of the 3rd street and 10th street rail corridors onto the 

10th street corridor. This has been a long time coming and is a crucial element to the long-term viability of 

our downtown area. I trust that my fellow citizens will also support this endeavor. Thank you for your 

timeand attention in this matter of crucial importance to our downtown.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC208 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Johnson, David I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC209 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Zahrn, Timothy C. I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC210 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Freitag, Beverly I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC211 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

, Anonymous I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC212 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Randall, David I strongly support the 10th street rail consolidation plan. I have elected to retire here in Springfield, which is 

a wonderful community. Please help us keep it that way and join us making sure plans go forward utilizing 

the 10th street rail plan.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC213 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stratton, Charlie For a variety of compelling reasons, I support the 10th Street Solution which calls for consolidation of

the tracks on the 10th Street Corridor.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC214 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Foster, Kevin The Tenth Street Railroad Proposal is the only plan that makes sense. Third Street runs right through the 

middle of downtown. If it is used, it will wreck our city. Please, please support Tenth Street for 

consolidation of tracks.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC215 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Schackman, Bill This letter is to inform you of my support of the 10th street rail plan. This seems to be the best option for 

the City of Springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC216 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Smith , Timothy B. 

The Dana - Thomas 

House Foundation 

We wish to express to you, our concern regarding a proposed change in train traffic in Springfield that 

might have an adverse affect on a true treasure belonging to the citizens of Illinois. The proposal to run 

high-speed rail with additional freight trains down the Third Street corridor will negatively impact the DanaThomas House, a state historic site that straddles the 3rd street railroad tracks. Designated as a National 

Historic Landmark since 1976, the Dana-Thomas House is one of the state's most valuable historic sites and 

contains the largest collection of site-specific original Frank Lloyd Wright designed ali glass and furniture. 

Last year the State of Illinois invested $2.5 million dollars on site renovations. The house has been voted 

one of the top 150 favorite buildings in the country, by the American Institute of Architects; the DanaThomas House is a treasure for Illinois and celiainly one of the "crown jewels" of Springfield. Protecting the 

integrity of the house is a primary concern of the Dana-Thomas House Foundation. If additional rail traffic 

were implemented on the 3rd street tracks, we are concerned of the accelerated fatigue on the building 

foundation that can be caused from the increased daily rail traffic cycles. Safety is also a primary concern. 

The parking for the site is located on the west side of these tracks, and the Dana-Thomas House is located 

on the east side. With 45,000 visitors, including school children and seniors, crossing the tracks, we are 

concerned about the safety of the site guests if there were increased traffic on these tracks. On behalf of 

the Dana-Thomas House Foundation Board of Directors, I urge you to endorse an alternative to the 3rd 

street corridor for additional rail traffic through Springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC217 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Butt, David

Sangamon County 

OEM

Sangamon County Office of Emergency Management supports Altemative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail 

Improvements Project. We applaud lOOT's recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best 

interest of Springfield. The recommendation to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 

10th Street corridor will make our community safer, better connected, and more prosperous. There are 

numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements 

alone are critical to our community's residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly 

reduce the umber of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel 

improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic development implications of 

Alternative 2A are mportant for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for ncreased 

investment that will grow our Medical District and create onstruction and high-wage professional jobs. 

Thank you for the pportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC218 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Roney, Wayne I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC219 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Clark, Mechill I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC220 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Ledage, Lynn I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC221 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Jackson, Kimberly I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC222 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Mahoney, Ed 

RE/MAX Professionals 

I am writing in support or consolidating rail traffic in Springfield to 10th Street. If this is not done, it will 

have a devastating impact on downtown Springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC223 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Schmit, John & 

Patricia 

Regarding railroad consolidation, we are writing to you to express our complete support for Alternative 2A. 

Any other possible route (other than going around the city) would create massive problems for cross-town 

traffic and could possibly damage our medical district.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC224 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Warren , Brad I support option 2a to consolidate the Third Street rail tracks in downtown Springfield to the 10th Street 

corridor.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC225 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stone, Jim 

Sangamon County 

Department of Public 

Health 

Please accept this email as evidence of my strong support for the 10th Street Rail Corridor Solution in 

Springfield, Illinois.

While there are many identified reasons the 10th Street solution is the best, i.e., elimination of rail 

crossings, preservation of historic downtown Springfield, improved safety and reduction of vehicle vs. train 

collisions, etc., my main interest and reason for support is the opportunity for growth of our Medical 

District. The 10th Street solution will allow us to attract businesses with a medical focus, which certainly 

will lead to increased and improved health care in Springfield and Sangamon County. This growth would 

offer spin-off benefits for our community, with the increase in good paying construction and high-wage 

medical jobs throughout our community.

It is my sincere hope that IDOT and the Federal Rail Road Commission accept, adopt, and enact the 10 

Street Corridor Solution for our community without delay. The benefits would be numerous; the impact 

would be substantial.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC226 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Spear, Bethany I would like to ask you to consider supporting Alternative 2A for improving the railways in Springfield. I 

believe it would be a great improvement to our historic city – not to mention the benefit of additional jobs, 

added safety, and making Springfield even more attractive. Please support this consolidation of rail 

services.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC227 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Augspurger, Pat I strongly support Alternative 2A to consolidate rail traffic from 3rd Street to 10th Street, while making 

safety improvements to the 19th Street corridor. This would avoid critical delay of emergency access to 

Medical Services for city residents as well as all who travel our surrounding roads and interstate highways.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC228 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Mendenhall, Carole I am writing in support of Alternative 2A to consolidate rail traffic from 3rd Street to 10th Street in 

Springfield, Ill. I believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield and the surrounding 

community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC229 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Maier, Linda 

The Real Estate Firm, 

Inc.

I support alternative 2A determined by IDOT's environmental impact study for railroad consolidation 

through Springfield. I hope you will too. I appreciate your help.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC230 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Pittman, Julie I am writing to support Alternative 2A of the Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I feel this option would 

be the safest, reduce vehicle delays, noise and improve livability in the community. Additionally, it would 

allow the Medical district to grow together and create good paying construction and high-wage medical 

jobs throughout Springfield. It would also preserve the character of historic downtown Springfield as well 

as other historic sites throughout the city. I have lived in Springfield the majority of my life and am 

committed to what's best for our community. I feel Alternative 2A is the best and most logical choice for 

our area. Thank you.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC231 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Zang, Jean E. This letter is being written in support of the relocation and consolidation of the railroad tracks in 

Springfield, Illinois to the 10th Street corridor. This appears to be the most logical location for the trains to 

travel thru Springfield. I urge you to please consider this solution for Springfield, Illinois rail traffic.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC232 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Roderick, Donna I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Please move all trains to 10th Street in Springfield, IL. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC233 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hamende, William I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC234 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Moore, Terry I support the 10th Street Rail Corridor solution. This seems a better option to me then 3rd Street. I also 

believe thatsome work and maintenance should be done on the 19th Street corridor to insure that the 

infrastructure needs of the east side of the city of springfield are not neglected.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC235 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Boedigheimer, Janette Please let it be known that I fully support the 10th Street rail corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC236 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Robisch, Lou I would like to let you know that I support the 10tj Street corridor project in Springfield for rail traffic. Even 

though it would add many more trains passing my place of employment, I think that the underpasses will 

be such a great help in keeping vehicle traffic moving. The underpasses will also cut down on pedestrians 

running across the tracks to beat the train! It is so important to not cut the Springfield Medical District in 

half with the trains running on 3rd Street. The large number of trains predicted to run through Springfield in 

the upcoming years would really hinder the growth of our medical district. I look forward to seeing high 

speed rail pass though Springfield. My grandsons love trains and they will also enjoy seeing these new 

trains! Moving all of the train stations to 10th Street will be an improvement for our great city. Keeping the 

trains where they should be with less rail crossings will also be a huge improvement for everyone.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC237 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I am in total support of the 10th street corridor solution. The 10th street solution is the best solution for the 

city of springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC238 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Berns, Molly I am writing in support of consolidating the 3rd street railroad tracks to the 10th street corridor. I have been 

a resident of Sangamon County my entire life. Train traffic has been a constant problem for residents, 

commuters and visitors. Consolidating the trains to 10th Street and building associated underpasses willl 

help eliminate the traffic delays that occur when trains block the crossings. Furterhmore, the 10th street 

corridor project will move the train and bus station complex to an area that provides maximum flexibility 

and accessibility for passngers and eliminate the congestion of SMTD busses in the downtown area. The 

10th Street Corridor Project will be a great asset to our community. I am pleased to support the project. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC239 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Anonymous, I support the 10th Street Corridor Project option 2A. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC240 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Reed, Kelly I support the 10th Street Corridor solution in Springfield, IL. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC241 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Magmuso, Jay C. I support the 10th Street Corridor solution in Springfield, IL. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC242 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Goulet, Joe I support the 10th Street Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC243 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Pearson, Tracy I support the 10th Street Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC244 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Lindsey, Christine I support the 10th Street Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC245 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Watts, Mary Beth I support the 10th Street Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC246 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Elston, Cassie I would like to let you know that I support the 10th Street rail corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC247 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Rice, Fatina I support the 10th Street Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC248 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Huber, Mary I support the 10th Street Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC249 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Bosie, Annette I support the 10th Street Corridor solution. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC250 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Wilday, Jeffery 

Downtown 

Springfield, Inc.

While Downtown Springfield, Incorporated ("DSI") is an advocate of the construction of a high speed rail 

network in Illinois; if Springfield's central business district is to remain viable, however, it is essential that 

"railroad consolidation" occur at the same time. Specifically, DSI strongly supports Alternative 2A, and we 

applaud lOOT's recommendation, believing this alternative to be in the best interest of our city. The 

consolidation ofthe 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor will make our 

community safer, better connected, and more prosperous. While 051 recognizes the benefit of high speed 

rail for Illinois, it should not be constructed in a manner which would irreparably harm Illinois' capital city's 

economic future. We seek your help in making sure that this does not occur. There are numerous reasons 

why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to 

our community's residents and visitors since the proposed plan will greatly reduce the potential for vehicle 

collisions by providing nine new grade separations. Alternative 2A will also reducing traffic delays and 

provide easier access to Springfield's historic downtown commercial district. The additional economic 

development implications of Alternative 2A for Springfield

cannot be overstated. At the same time that it creates a new area for commercial growth along the 10th 

Street corridor, removal of the 3rd Street tracks will promote increased investment that will expand the 

city's Medical District and create construction and high-wage professional jobs. In sum, DSI wholeheartedly 

endorses IDOT's Alternative 2A. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue 

in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC251 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Rahn, Douglas

Memorial Medical 

Center

As Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Memorial Medical Center located within the MidIllinois Medical District in Springfield, I am writing you to underscore our strong support for the Draft EIS 

Alternative 2A consolidating the Third Street rail traffic onto the Tenth Street rail corridor. This is an issue of 

vital importance to the future of the medical industry and the entire city and region. The Third Street tracks 

currently bifurcate the Mid-Illinois Medical District, separating Springfield's two hospitals and the Southern 

Illinois University School of Medicine. Alternative 2A will dramatically improve emergency vehicular access 

to and between Memorial Medical Center and St. John's Hospital. Both Memorial and St. John's are 

teaching hospital affiliates of the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and partners in the 

Southern Illinois Trauma Center. As such, ambulances bring trauma patients to the hospitals 24 hours a 

day, seven days a week from an 18-county region. A large percentage of these trauma patients are victims 

of automobile accidents, heart attacks, strokes and other life-threatening conditions. Delays of minutes can 

mean the difference between life or death, recovery or pennanent debilitation. The current, at-grade 

railroad crossings within the Medical District boundaries (Madison to North Grand Avenue) creates serious 

obstacles to the critical transportation of these patients, resulting in increased safety risks and unnecessary 

delays. Memorial strongly supports Alternative 2A because it will remove these existIng barriers. 

Alternative 2A will remove and relocate the Third Street railroad tracks to the Tenth Street corridor and 

create overpasses and underpasses at major east/west arterial streets along Tenth and Nineteenth Streets. 

This will provide unimpeded west bound access to both hospitals from Interstate 55, state highways, roads 

and residents living on the east side of Springfield. Alternative 2A will also spur economic growth and 

development along both the Third Street corridor and within the Mid-Illinois Medical District. The Medical 

District master plan calls for growing the two hospital campuses towards one another along Carpenter 

Street to ultimately create an integrated medical community serving patients from central and southern 

Illinois. Alternative 2A will facilitate the realization of the Medical District vision, consistent with the Master 

Plan that recommends removal of the Third Street railroad tracks. Eliminating the vibrations from train 

traffic will allow for the construction of medical facilities that house sensitive or highly-calibrated medical 

equipment along the vacated Third Street rail corridor within the Medical District. The vacated Third Street 

corridor is in the heart of the medical district and will allow Memorial, St. John 's and the SIU School of 

Medicine to expand specialized services and realize the economic benefits that accompany such expansion. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC252 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Logan, Wills With regard the railroad relocation issue here in Springfield Illinois, I am writing in staunch support of the 

10'" Street solution, with alternate Option A. This is and has been a formidable problem for the citizens of 

Springfield for many, many years. First mentioned in the West Plan of 1925, there have since been several 

attempts to rid our city of the ills we have lived with because th ree different sets of rail lines traverse our 

city each and every day. In fact, I was very involved in 1978 when an effort was initiated to relocate all rail 

traffic onto a single corridor. That endeavor was not successful and our city has suffered from the 

consequences of a divided community, increased neighborhood isolation, more and unsafe grade 

separations, longer and more frequent traffic delays, and perpetual, unsightly dilapidation around three 

railroads. These circumstances have crippled our abi lity to seize economic opportunities that would 

enhance or spur new development and growth in areas of our community that need it most. Today, at long 

last, we have identified a way to create a different and more hopeful future, while discarding past missteps. 

The 10'" Street solution will make the our city safer, open up sections of our community for growth and 

development, improve transportation flow without intermittent delay and create a quiet zone by not 

having to always brace for unending, unsettling, annoying t rain whistles throughout the day. The possibil 

ities which accompany 10'" Street are endless. How different our community will be once this tremendous 

task is complete. I can only hope and pray that those burdened with decision responsibility will select the 

10'"Street solution for Springfield Il linois.In reference to the letter I sent to you in support of the 10th 

Street corridor for the High-Speed Rail project in Springfield, I would like to make the following correction: I 

wrote "Alternative A," when I should have indicated the correct title for the entire corridor, which should 

have been "Alternative 2A" Please note my correction for the record. Thank you for your assistance in this 

matter.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC253 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Maholland, Marlene This letter is let you know that I am in favor of the 10th Street corridor for the railroad. This would help with 

safety concerns, the historic

district and the medical district.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC254 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Kushak , Marilyn A. 

Mid-West Family 

Broadcasting

The only choice in the best interest of all stake holders, the community, and the rail roads in Springfield, 

Illinois is Alternative 2A.

Please join us in preparing for a successful future for all by supporting Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC255 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hasara , Karen I have lived in Springfield all my life and have never seen our community so united as it is on the issue of 

using the 10th street corridor for high speed rail. We have serious concerns about the thought of 

destroying our downtown if the 3rd street corridor is adopted. You have listened well to us when we have 

explained our concerns and I have confidence that you will continue to do so. Thanks you for giving us 

opportunities to speak on the issue.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC256 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Haines , Nancy I am writing in support of the 10th Street rail consolidation. Removing the tracks from 3rd Street and 

moving them to 10th Street will increase safety. This consolidation will also save the historic and business 

sections of the greater downtown and medical district areas. Thank you for the opportunity to voice my 

support.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC257 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Brake , Teri I am writing to you with a strong NO to putting the high-speed rail on the Third Street route in 

Springfield,IL. It is too close to downtown and would harm the city's image with tourists. We have a Frank 

Lloyd Wright building called the Dana Thomas house and the building's outside looks would be ruined by a 

traffic overpass.

NO to Third Street rail.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC258 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Barber, Nancy I most certainly support Alternative 2A. After all the studies through the years concluding 10th Street is the 

right course for Springfield, it would make no sense at all to ignore the concensus of opinion and make a 

mess of the Capital city in countless ways.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC259 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Augspurger, Don I live in Springfield, IL and strongly support Alternative 2A to consolidate rail traffic from 3rd Street to 10th 

Street, while making safety improvements to the 19th Street corridor. Such consolidation is critical to ongoing development of our Medical District and to avoid chronic disruption of traffic flow through our 

downtown business and historic areas which have been undergoing extensive long-term improvements.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC260 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sims, Norman

SSCRPC

Please find attached a resolution approved unanimously by the Springfield-Sangamon County Regional 

Planning Commission on July 18, 2012, endorsing the selection of Alternative 2A as the preferred route for 

high speed passenger rail through Springfield, Illinois. This resolution supports the recommendation made 

by the Illinois Department of Transportation in its recently released Tier 2 Draft nvironmental Impact 

Statement Evaluation of Springfield Railroad Improvements Project. As the joint planning agency of both 

the City of Springfield and Sangamon County, the . Commission has a unique interest in any decisions 

regarding railroad operations in Springfield,

and because of this the Commission's staff has conducted numerous thoughtful studies pertaining to the 

impact of the project on the community. As the resolution notes, the Commission firmly believes that 

Alternative 2A, which relocates the existing 3rd Street railroad corridor to the existing 10lh Street railroad 

corridor, would provide for more effective and efficient vehicle movement in the region than exists 

currently or under the other options considered, is more sensitive to our community and its needs, and 

addresses many of the problems previously identified through the extensive analysis conducted by the 

Commission's staff. We encourage your support for Alternative 2A and stand ready to provide any other 

assistance that may be needed in this matter.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC261 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dixon, Louis H. I am writing in support of Alternative 2A as the recommended corridor for High Speed Rail through 

Springfield. Consolidation of the 3'd and 10th Street rail corridors through Springfield to a single corridor 

location at 10th Street is critical to our community's future. With the advent of high speed rail as well as the 

increasing demand for moving freight by rail our community is destined to see a significant increase in rail 

traffic. Without the proper grade separations (overpasses and underpasses) at the railway/ roadway 

intersections the increased rail traffic will cause significant traffic delays and safety will be compromised. 

Grade separating these intersections is not feasible along the third street corridor due to the proximity of 

buildings and other physical features. However grade separations are feasible along 10th Street. Shifting 

the 3rd Street traffic to the 10th Street corridor is also critical for the future development of our medical 

district. Health care has become a leading industry in Springfield and we cannot afford to allow future 

increases in passenger and rail traffic to limit this industry. Finally to move the 10th street corridor forward 

Springfield needs both state and federal funds to make this a reality. In particular Springfield should have 

the ability to directly compete for project funds at the federal level and not just at the state level. In closing 

as lifelong Springfield resident I urge the State and Federal officials to move forward with the 10th street 

corridor for high speed rail through Springfield.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC262 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Morrison, Mary I never write letters but I am definitely in support of Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail 

Improvements Project for Springfield, Illinois. This moves train traffic and high speed rail to 10th street and 

out of the center of our city. This is better for all citizens and will make our community much safer, provide 

opportunities for economic growth, provide safer and more efficient vehicle traffic flow, and unifies our 

city. Springfield thanks IDOT for listening to our community voices, its leaders, embracing the 

environmental impact studies, and giving their recommendation to the Federal Railroad Administration 

(FDA) to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto the 10th Street corridor. There are 

numerous reasons why Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements 

alone are critical to our community’s residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly 

reduce the number of vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. This will also make travel 

improvements by reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic development implications of 

Alternative 2A are important for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd Street tracks will allow for increased 

investment that will grow our Medical District and create construction and high-wage professional jobs.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on this important issue in our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC263 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Wilhite, Ann The consolidation of rail traffic is the best option for Springfield . It would just kill Springfield's economic 

centers - the tourist business in our nice downtown and the medica l district.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC264 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Riffey, Darrell & 

Sharon

Darrel and Sharon Riffey support Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. We 

applaud IDOT's recommendation and believe this alternative is in the best interest of Springfield. The 

recommendation to consolidate the 3rd Street (Union Pacific) corridor onto teh 20th Street corridor will 

make our community safer, better connected and more prosperous. There are numerous reasons why 

Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for Springfield. The safety improvements alone are critical to our 

community as residents and visitors because the proposed plan will significantly reduce the number of 

vehicle collisions by providing nine new grade separations. Thsii will also make travel improvements by 

reducing vehicle delays. The additional economic development implications of Alternative 2A are important 

for Springfield. Removal of the 3rd street tracks will allow for increased investment that will grow our 

medical district and create construction and high wage professional jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to 

provide comment on this important issue in our community. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC265 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Allen, John I write in support of Alternative 2A for the rail relocation effort in Springfield. This alternative will have a 

critically important, positive impact on safety, travel, quality of life, and economic development of the city 

and its residents. As plans proceed, I trust every effort will be made to secure jobs in this work for women 

and local minorities. Thanks for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC266 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Groves, Linda I support the alternative 2A. Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC267 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Schober, Albert & 

Barbara

We wish to express our opinion on the proposed consolidation of rail lines through Springfield, IL. We 

support the plan to consolidate both the freight and passenger lines to the 10th Street corridor. Presently, 

the rail traffic already on 3rd Street is disruptive to teh downtown area and we are told that the freight 

traffic will greatly increase soon. Adding high speed rail to the 3rd street corridor would be a very negative 

impact to the city. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC268 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Jobe, Cory M.

City of Springfield 

Ward 6

I am writing this letter in support of Alternative 2A for rail consolidation for the City of Springfield. As an 

elected official on the Springfield City Council I urge you to support the wishes of many in our community! 

Recently your agency (IDOT) Illinois Department of Transportation recommended Alternative 2A, which 

consolidates rail traffic from the 3rd Street to 10th Street, while making safety and travel improvements to 

19th Street corridor. .. .I applaud your recommendation and pledge my support as an Alderman who 

represents the inner city/urban core of the Capitol City! By Supporting Alternative 2A leaders at the local, 

state and federal levels will create safety, travel and quality of life improvements for our community. 

Alternative 2A will also make all portions of Springfield safer, attract capital investment in the Medical 

District, allow creation of good paying medical and construction jobs, preserve the character of historic 

Downtown Springfield, allow for the construction of a multi-modal center. .. bringing commercial 

development to the near east side of Springfield, and reduce traffic delays and accidents on the IOtll Street 

corridor. Again, as you make your final determination ... I urge your support of the Alternative 2A rail 

consolidation plan. This could be one of the most significant decisions our community will face for 

generations to come ... that will have long lasting impacts on our community.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC269 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Stuart , Robert A. 

Brown, Hay & 

Stephans

Please be advised that as a Past Chairman of the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce and a partner in 

the law firm of Brown, Hay & Stephens, LLP for approximately 39 years here in the City of Springfield, in 

addition to my growing up in the City of Springfield, I am quite concerned about the safety, travel and 

quality of life within our community. I support Alternative 2A which consolidates rail traffic from 3rd Street 

to the 10th Street corridor while making safety and travel improvements to the 19th Street corridor. It is 

clear to the entire Springfield community that Alternative 2A will make all portions of Springfield and our 

community safer. It will make a huge difference in the continued viability of the medical district which with 

decreasing number of State employees has become a mainstay for the economy of Springfield. It will allow 

the creation of good paying medical and construction jobs. It will improve traffic flow with new under and 

over passes, and eliminate environmental noise by establishing quiet zones. It will preserve the integrity 

and character of the historic downtown Springfield. It will allow for the construction of a multi-model 

center which will be an impetus for commercial development on the East side of Springfield with an 

economic impact on minorities situated within the East side. Finally, it will reduce traffic delays and 

accidents on the 10th Street corridor. .For all these reasons, I highly support Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC270 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Squires , Frank 

Springfield Mass 

Transit District 

As Chairman of the Springfield Mass Transit District Board of Trustees, I am writing to express my support 

of the Springfield Rail mprovement Project Alternative 2A. Alternative 2A would allow for the construction 

of a new Multi-Modal Transit Center on the 10th Street corridor. This will help initiate commercial and 

residential development on the near East side of the city. It would also allow the Medical district to merge 

while creating medical and construction jobs in Springfield. The less of an impact this project has on 

Springfield residential neighborhoods, the less chance of residential displacements. In addition to creating 

jobs and development, Alternative 2A would ensure the preservation of Historic Downtown Springfield and 

the many other Historic sites of the city. Portions of Springfield will be made safer by reducing the number 

of collisions and the elimination of vehicular noise and distractions. Finally, Alternative 2A will allow for 

cross-town traffic flow resulting in a reduction of delays while enhancing the curb appeal along the 19th 

Street corridor. In closing, the Springfield Mass Transit District strongly supports the Springfield Rail 

Improvement Project Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC271 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Buscher , Mike 

The Real Estate Group

This letter is an appeal to please move forward with Alternative 2A in regards to the railway consolidation 

in Springfield II. I am a lifelong citizen of Springfield and an active member of our community, both in 

business and community service. I am currently Managing Broker of the largest Real Estate company in our 

area. I am a past president of The Capitol Area Association of REAL TORS as well as past chairman of 

Leadership Springfield and have been a board member of our local Chamber of Commerce. Alternative 2A 

will:

Make all portions of Springfield safer by reducing the number of vehicle collisions. Better connect our 

community by creating better cross traffic and reducing vehicle delays. Eliminate horn noise by establishing 

a quite zone in the city of Springfield. Allow the Medical district to grow together and create good paying 

construction and highwage medical jobs throughout Springfield. Minimize the impact of Springfield's older 

residential neighborhoods, including fewer residential and commercial displacements. Preserve the 

character of historic downtown Springfield as well as other historic sites throughout the city. That is just a 

few of the benefits. I appreciate all of you time and research . I look forward to a mutually beneficial 

transition for the consolidated railways.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC272 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Musso , Todd

Capital Area 

Association of 

Realtors

We are writing in support of the Illinois Department of Transportation (!DOT) Tier I Draft Environmental 

Impact Statement (EIS) for high-speed rail service from Chicago to SI. Louis which has identified the 10th 

Street Corridor as the preferred alternative for passenger and freight traffic through Springfield. CAAR 

strongly agrees with !DOT, and believes the 10th Street option, known as "Alternative 2A", is the most 

responsible choice for expanding rail service without negatively impacting residents, businesses, historical 

and cultural sites, the medical district, and the overall economic health of the City of Springfield. Alternative 

2A is also the preferred alternative of the Chamber of Commerce, and of Downtown Springfield, Inc. 

Alternative 2A will: * Make all portions of Springfield safer by reducing the number of vehicle collisions. * 

Better connect our community by creating better cross traffic and reducing vehicle delays. * Eliminate hom 

noise by establishing a quite zone in the city of Springfield. * Allow the Medical district to grow together 

and create good paying construction and

high-wage medical jobs throughout Springfield. * Minimize the impact of Springfield's older residential 

neighborhoods, including

fewer residential and commercial displacements. * Preserve the character of historic downtown Springfield 

as well as other historic

sites throughout the city. * Allow for construction of a new train station and transit center (multi-modal) on 

the 10th Street corridor which will help spur much needed commercial and residential development on the 

near east side of Springfield. * Enhances the quality of life along the 19th Street corridor by creating a quite 

zone and reducing traffic delays. We believe that the reasons for pursuing Alternative 2A are compelling 

and would strongly encourage the adoption of this Draft EIS.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC273 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Hansen , Eric

SSCRPC

Please find attached a resolution approved unanimously by the Springfield-Sangamon County Regional 

Planning Commission on July 18, 2012, endorsing the selection of Alternative 2A as the preferred route for 

high speed passenger rail through Springfield, Illinois. This resolution supports the recommendation made 

by the Illinois Department of Transportation in its recently released Tier 2 Draft nvironmental Impact 

Statement Evaluation of Springfield Railroad Improvements Project. As the joint planning agency of both 

the City of Springfield and Sangamon County, the . Commission has a unique interest in any decisions 

regarding railroad operations in Springfield,

and because of this the Commission's staff has conducted numerous thoughtful studies pertaining to the 

impact of the project on the community. As the resolution notes, the Commission firmly believes that 

Alternative 2A, which relocates the existing 3rd Street railroad corridor to the existing 10lh Street railroad 

corridor, would provide for more effective and efficient vehicle movement in the region than exists 

currently or under the other options considered, is more sensitive to our community and its needs, and 

addresses many of the problems previously identified through the extensive analysis conducted by the 

Commission's staff. We encourage your support for Alternative 2A and stand ready to provide any other 

assistance that may be needed in this matter.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC274 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Higginbotham, Todd 

A. 

The letter is in regards to the Draft EIS study recently completed for the praposed high-speed rail from 

Chicago to St. Louis. Part of the EIS study addressed the three rail corridors that divide Springfield. The 

study concfuded that the 10'h Street corridor was the most viable option than consolidation on the 3rd 

Street corridor. I am writing to endorse the findings of this study. Consolidation on the 10th Street corridor 

prevents a series of seriously adverse affects associated with 3'd Street consolidation, such as the physical 

severing of the Mid-Illinois Medical District and the downtown, endangers the historic DanaThomas House, 

and severely hinders the revitalization efforts already underway in the Enos Park Historic neighborhood 

immediately north of Downtown Springfield of which I am a resident. I respectfully ask that fDOT accepts 

the findings of this EIS and makes this recommendation to the Federal Railroad Administration.

Thanks in advance for your consideration. 

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC275 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Combs, Steve 

Enos Park 

The Board of Directors of Enos Park Neighborhood Improvement Association, a 501 (c) 3 not for profit 

organization, representing approximately 3,000 residents in a 40 square block historic neighborhood 

located north of downtown Springfield between the 3rd Street and 10th Street rail corridors, 

enthusiastically supports IDOT's position of relocating the 3rd Street rail system to 10th Street. Alternative 

2A represents the most positive resolution to railroad problems that have plagued the State Capitol for 

many decades.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC276 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Combs , Steve 

I.C.O.N Coalition 

On behalf of the ICON Coalition, a organization of representatives from twenty two neighborhood 

associations in Springfield, Illinois, I want to confirm the Coalition's support for Alternative 2A of the EIS for 

the Tier 2 Evaluation of Springfield Rail Improvements Project.

The neighborhood associations in total represent areas of the City affected by three major issues; 

downtown commerce and tourism, medical district and healthcare, and historical and architecturally 

unique homes. The City has waited many decades to finally get the railroad tracks consolidated. Alternative 

2 A is the first positive step in that direction for not only this generation but those to come.

We encourage your support of this Alternative and all future request for the successful implementation of 

Alternative 2A.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC277 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Wallace, Char I am a full time employee at a successful business located right next to the 3rd street railroad tracks in 

downtown Springfield. I feel that the 3rd street option for high speed rail would have a negative effect not 

only on the business I am employed with but also the medical and historic districts and the people they 

employ and service. I urge you to support the Alternative 2A to the FRA as I and so many others directly 

affected by this do. Thanks for your consideration.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC278 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Lincoln , A. From afar I have heard the cries of my friends and neighbors in my hometown who fear that their 

government officials do not understand nor comprehend the seriousness of the issue at hand; namely the 

selection of the best rail corridor for the consolidation of increased rail traffic. Let me remind you that as 

President Elect when I left my beloved Springfield to travel to my new office and residence in Washington 

that I departed from the railroad station on Tenth Street. It is this same rail line from whence I departed 

that should be selected as the best corridor for future consolidation of rail traffic through Springfield. If my 

term in office had not been violently cut short, I would instruct my Secretary of Transportation to Direct 

that future development of high speed passenger and increased freight rail traffic through Springfield, 

Illinois be consolidated on the 10th Street corridor. However, in my absence and in my memory I 

respectfully ask that you recommend to the Federal Railroad Administration that my desires be carried out.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC279 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Russell, Lou Ann This letter is written in support of Alternative 2A for Springfield's rail improvements. My husband and I 

have lived in Springfield since the 70's. We are very interested in improving the safety of our community. 

We have attended two of the public hearings and shared our belief that highspeed rail traffic does not 

belong on Springfield's 3rd Street corridor. We understand lOOT has recommended Alternative 2A to the 

Federal Railroad Administration. This alternative would relocate the 3rd Street corridor to the 10th Street 

corridor. In addition, and 10th and 19th Street corridors would become quiet zones. From what we have 

learned of the alternatives, we believe Alternative 2 is the preferred option. Thank you.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC280 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Boer, Michael

Mid-Illinois Medical 

District

As leaders of the city of Springfield's medical community, we are writing you to underscore our united Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

support for the Draft EIS Alternative 2A consolidating the Third Street railtrafflc onto the Tenth Street rail 

corridor. This is an issue of vital importance to the future of the medical industry and the entire city and 

region.The Third Street tracks currently bifurcate the Mid-Illinois Medical District, separating Springfield's 

two hospitals and the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Alternative 2A will dramatically 

improve emergency vehicular access to and between Memorial Medical Center and SI. John's Hospital. Both 

Memorial and SI. John's are teaching hospital affiliates of the Southern Illinois University School of 

Medicine and partners in the Southern Illinois Trauma Center. As such, ambulances bring trauma patients 

to the hospitals 24 hours a day, seven days a week from an 18-county region. A large percentage of these 

trauma patients are victims of automobile accidents, heart attacks, strokes and other life-threatening 

conditions. Delays of minutes can mean the difference between life or death, recovery or permanent 

debilitation. The current, at-grade railroad crossings within the Medical District boundaries (Madison to 

North Grand Avenue) creates serious obstacles to the critical transportation of these patients, resulting in 

increased safety risks and unnecessary delays. Memorial strongly supports Alternative 2A because it will 

remove these existing barriers. Alternative 2A will remove and relocate the Third Street railroad tracks to 

the Tenth Street corridor and create overpasses and underpasses at major east/west arterial streets along 

Tenth and Nineteenth Streets. This will provide unimpeded west bound access to both hospitals from 

Interstate 55, state highways, roads and residents living on the east side of Springfield. Alternative 2A will 

also spur economic growth and development along both the Third Street corridor and within the MidIllinois Medical District. The Medical District master plan calls for growing the two hospital campuses 

towards one another along Carpenter Street to ultimately create an integrated medical community serving 

patients from central and southern Illinois. Alternative 2A will facilitate the realization of the Medical 

District vision, consistent with the Master Plan that re~ommends removal of the Third Street railroad tracks 

Eliminating the vibrations from train traffic will allow for the construction of medical facilities that house 

sensitive or highly-calibrated medical equipment along the vacated Third Street rail corridor within the 

Medical District. The vacated Third Street corridor is in the heart of the medical district and will allow 

Memorial, St. John's and the SIU School of Medicine to expand specialized services and realize the 

economic benefits that accompany such expansion. It will also encourage entrepreneurial development of 

medically-related and other support services such as the new County Market grocery store between 

Madison and Carpenter Streets. Alternative 2A will significantly reduce noise, vibration and traffic delays 

throughout Springfield and improve vehicular and pedestrian safety by creating multiple grade separations 

between train, vehicular and pedestrian crossings. Improved safety and reduced traffic delays will greatly 

benefit health care patients, families, doctors, nurses, volunteers, students and employees of Memorial 

Medical Center, SI. John's Hospital and Southern Illinois University School of Medicine who travel to and 

from our health care facilities every day. Furthermore, relocating the passenger trains to the Tenth Street 

corridor will enable the creation of the long-planned multi-modal center along the Tenth Street corridor 

and serve as a catalyst for economic development in east Springfield. The railroad issue we are facing today 

will prove to have historic significance, comparable to the decision to locate the state's newest medical 

school in Springfield 40 some years ago. The creation of the SIU School of Medicine in 1970 has served as a 

catalyst for growth in our community's medical services sector ever since. Alternative 2A will have a similar 

catalytic effect for the next 40 years. We strongly urge IDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration to 

issue a Record of Decision in support of Alternative 2A. Thank you.
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC281 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Isringhausen, Luke

Isringhausen

I have worked in Springfield for 7 years alongside the railroad tracks at Isringhausen Imports. More 

importantly than that, in 1985 my dad purchased the building in which we currently do business which is 

located at 229 E. Jefferson because he thought it would be good for his business as well as for downtown 

Springfield. What would not be good for our business and even worse for downtown Springfield, is if the 

high speed rail came to 3'd Street. I firmly believe that it would devastate the downtown Springfield 

historic, medical and housing districts and destroy economic development in the areas surrounding the 3rd 

Street tracks. I am writing in support of Alternative 2A to the FRA and ask that you support this measure as 

well.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC282 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Koch, Susan

University of Illinois at 

Springfield

I am writing to let you know that the University of Illinois Springfield and I, personally, support the 

consolidation of the Third Street railroad corridor onto the Tenth Street corridor in the city of Springfield. 

Formally, it is described as Alternative 2A for the Tier 2 Springfield Rail Improvements Project. I appreciate 

this opportunity to provide input during the public comment period. I have followed the debate closely 

since my arrival in Springfield a year ago and I am convinced that Mayor Mike Houston and other 

community leaders are right in supporting this option for our city. The future of rail traffic is especially 

important to the university. More than 50 percent of our freshmen come from the Chicago area and Amtrak 

travel is important to our students, as well as to staff who travel regularly to and from Chicago. The rail 

relocation solution that brings the greatest amount of vibrancy and safety to our city will enhance the 

university community. Also, improved traffic flow in the city will allow members of the community to get to 

our campus on the edge of the city more conveniently.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC283 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Dorsey, Kevin J.

SIU School of 

Medicine

I would like to add my individual voice to the letter you received from the leadership of the city of Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

Springfield's medical community supporting Draft EIS Alternative 2A. As the Dean of Southern Illinois 

University School of Medicine, I administer physician education programs that are conducted at both 

Memorial Medical Center and St. John's Hospital. These programs bring over 500 trainees to our clinical 

campus in Springfield-medical students and residents-and provide the region with sophisticated medical 

care services through the nearly 200 practicing physicians who make up our faculty. All ofthese health care 

students and health care professionals travel between our affiliated hospitals, and many do so several 

times in any given day. Removing rail traffic from the 3rd street corridor is important now-and will be even 

more critical as both freight and passenger rail traffic increase in the future. It is not the convenience of 

physicians and students that matters here. Rather, the ability to travel between these institutions is vital to 

caring for patients who come to us for health care services. Ready access to each of the hospitals for 

emergency vehicles provides a dramatic example, but getting the clinical care team who will provide 

medical and surgical treatments to patient care settings is a more frequent and often just as critical need. 

Patients also travel among the institutions contained within the boundaries of the Mid-Illinois Medical 

District -seeing

physicians in our clinics, for example, and then getting laboratory or imaging studies done at one of the 

hospitals. Grade-level rail crossings at a minimum create potentially dangerous delays, and they certainly 

increase safety risks, especially for patients preoccupied with their medical conditions or those unfamiliar 

with the traffic patterns in the central city. Alternative 2A addresses these issues. It removes existing safety 

hazards. It creates overpasses and underpasses that facilitate both east and west bound access to the city's 

health care institutions. It allows for the development of the Mid-Illinois Medical District in the way 

envisioned by the hundreds of citizens involved in the planning process that created the District's master 

plan-with protected residential areas, additional green space, and foresaw the ability for the two hospital 

campuses to grow toward each other along the Carpenter Street corridor. This kind of development helps 

SIU School of Medicine be better able to fulfill its responsibilities to the citizens of the region. It helps the 

economic growth of the city as well. On a personal note, as a now decade-long resident of the city of 

Springfield, I am convinced that Alternative 2A gives the entire city, not just the medical district, badly 

needed relief from rail congestion and rail-related noise. Opening up the central corridor and consolidating 

rail traffic at a point where sensible passageways through the city can be accommodated is good

public policy, facilitating a better quality of life for all of us who make our homes here. For these reasons, I 

strongly urge IDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration to support Alternative 2A and to incorporate 

that recommendation in the Record of Decision that will
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC284 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Sandstrom, Steward

The Greater 

Springfield Chamber 

of Commerce

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

medical and surgical treatments to patient care settings is a more frequent and often just as critical need. 

Patients also travel among the institutions contained within the boundaries of the Mid-Illinois Medical 

District -seeing

physicians in our clinics, for example, and then getting laboratory or imaging studies done at one of the 

hospitals. Grade-level rail crossings at a minimum create potentially dangerous delays, and they certainly 

increase safety risks, especially for patients preoccupied with their medical conditions or those unfamiliar 

with the traffic patterns in the central city. Alternative 2A addresses these issues. It removes existing safety 

hazards. It creates overpasses and underpasses that facilitate both east and west bound access to the city's 

health care institutions. It allows for the development of the Mid-Illinois Medical District in the way 

envisioned by the hundreds of citizens involved in the planning process that created the District's master 

plan-with protected residential areas, additional green space, and foresaw the ability for the two hospital 

campuses to grow toward each other along the Carpenter Street corridor. This kind of development helps 

SIU School of Medicine be better able to fulfill its responsibilities to the citizens of the region. It helps the 

economic growth of the city as well. On a personal note, as a now decade-long resident of the city of 

Springfield, I am convinced that Alternative 2A gives the entire city, not just the medical district, badly 

needed relief from rail congestion and rail-related noise. Opening up the central corridor and consolidating 

rail traffic at a point where sensible passageways through the city can be accommodated is good

public policy, facilitating a better quality of life for all of us who make our homes here. For these reasons, I 

strongly urge IDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration to support Alternative 2A and to incorporate 

that recommendation in the Record of Decision that will

guide our future planning.

The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce thanks IDOT for the Draft EIS recommending Alternative 2A. 

We believe this solution will make all portions of our community safer, better connected and more 

prosperous, while accommodating growing freight and passenger rail traffic through Springfield. It reflects 

a change our city has needed for many years, as our rail needs have changed drastically since the first 

railroad came to Springfield in 1842. The safety improvements in Alternative ve 2A are numerous and go 

beyond the predicted lowering of vehicle accidents that are outlined in the Draft EIS. Alternative 2A 

removes an entire rail corridor out of a dense residential neighborhood, creating a safer environment for 

pedestrians .. Additionally, the proposed changes mean ambulances and emergency personnel will have 

better access to both hospitals with the removal of the 3rd Street corridor and the travel improvements 

made to the both and 19th Street corridors. Not only will patients have better access to emergency care, 

but now medical teams will be able to transport between hospitals more easily. The proposed 

infrastructure improvements outlined in Alternative 2A will also make our community better connected. 

The most pronounced improvements come from connecting the east and west portions of Springfield. 

Residents, commercial vehicles and emergency vehicles will now have several corridors that better connect 

the community and make travel easier. In addition to the safety improvements mentioned above, economic 

development opportunities will be created within the city core by removing travel barriers. The economic 

development opportunities this project will create in Springfield go beyond removing traffic barriers within 

the city center. The current 3rd Street corridor bifurcates the two hospitals and the medical school 

programs attached to each. Vibrations from train traffic preclude construction of medical facilities that 

house sensitive or highly y-calibrated medical equipment near the rail line. Alternative 2A will allow the 

Memorial Medical Center and St. John's Hospital campuses to grow towards one another along Carpenter 

Street to ultimately create an integrated medical community serving patients from central and southern 

Illinois. As we have noted in previous comments, the current 3rd Street corridor currently prevents the 

creation of good-paying construction and medical related jobs in our community. Current projects are being 

scaled down, while others are simply not moving forward. Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

enhancing the Springfield ld business community and economic climate. Not only wi ll Alternative 2A make 

our community safer, better connected and more prosperous, it wi ll improve the quality of life of our 

residents by eliminating trains horns, minimizing the impact of our older neighborhoods with fewer 

residential and commercial displacements compared to other alternatives, preserves the character of 

downtown, and allows for the construction of a multi-modal center. For all the reasons listed above and 

many more, Alternative 2A has The Chamber's full support. 
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC285 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Langfelder, James

City of Springfield

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

The most pronounced improvements come from connecting the east and west portions of Springfield. 

Residents, commercial vehicles and emergency vehicles will now have several corridors that better connect 

the community and make travel easier. In addition to the safety improvements mentioned above, economic 

development opportunities will be created within the city core by removing travel barriers. The economic 

development opportunities this project will create in Springfield go beyond removing traffic barriers within 

the city center. The current 3rd Street corridor bifurcates the two hospitals and the medical school 

programs attached to each. Vibrations from train traffic preclude construction of medical facilities that 

house sensitive or highly y-calibrated medical equipment near the rail line. Alternative 2A will allow the 

Memorial Medical Center and St. John's Hospital campuses to grow towards one another along Carpenter 

Street to ultimately create an integrated medical community serving patients from central and southern 

Illinois. As we have noted in previous comments, the current 3rd Street corridor currently prevents the 

creation of good-paying construction and medical related jobs in our community. Current projects are being 

scaled down, while others are simply not moving forward. Alternative 2A is the preferred alternative for 

enhancing the Springfield ld business community and economic climate. Not only wi ll Alternative 2A make 

our community safer, better connected and more prosperous, it wi ll improve the quality of life of our 

residents by eliminating trains horns, minimizing the impact of our older neighborhoods with fewer 

residential and commercial displacements compared to other alternatives, preserves the character of 

downtown, and allows for the construction of a multi-modal center. For all the reasons listed above and 

many more, Alternative 2A has The Chamber's full support. 

I am writing to express my objection to utilizing the Third Street Rail Corridor in Springfield, Illinois for the 

Chicago to St. Louis High Speed Rail project. I would like to express my support for Alternative 2A utilizing 

the Tenth Street corridor. According to a study conducted by Hanson Professional Services Inc., 2010 ail 

Traffic totaled 35 trains (10 passenger and 25 freight). The projected 2020 rail traffic total is 72 trains (18 

passenger and 54 freight). Even though the High Speed Rail project, which will be significantly funded by 

taxpayer dollars, emphasizes faster passenger trains, the projected passenger train to freight trains ratio 

increases from 2.5 to 3.3. It appears that freight trains will continue to take precedence over passenger 

trains despite using taxpayer dollars to fund the project. Previously I took Amtrak from Springfield to 

Chicago on a trip that should have lasted 3 II, hours. Twice we had to stop along the way - once to switch 

engines and the other for a passing freight train. At that point we were delayed an hour; however, as we 

were at the Chicago borders we were delayed another 30 minutes. The conductor apologized and told us 

that he "called ahead and told them we were delayed and coming, but they went ahead and ran a freight 

train." The conductor went on to say that they do this all the time. That leads me to question if this is High 

Speed Rail or More Freight Trains Rail. Moreover Union Pacific, the Third Street corridor beneficiary, will 

not be held accountable for meeting the passenger High Speed Rail time requirements.The Third Street 

corridor dissects the heart of downtown Springfield and Springfield's Medical District. The rail also runs 

right next to the historic Dana Thomas House, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and is the most 

complete collection of his works in the world. The 50% increase of train traffic, especially freight trains 

going by this national treasure could do irreparable harm. Consequently I object to utilizing the Third Street 

corridor in Springfield, Illinois for the Chicago to St. Louis High Speed Rail project. I do support the 

Alternative 2A, Tenth Street corridor, which was recommended by Hanson Professional Services Inc. 

According to Hanson Professional Services' recommendation, Alternative 2A "has the second lowest traffic 

delays, lowest crash frequency, lowest train hom noise, second lowest number of displacements, lowest 

number of access changes, and lowest total cost. It fulfills the project purpose and need with the lowest 

total cost while minimizing environmental impacts. This alternative does not cause additional noise and 

vibration impacts to the Medical District, or a severance to their long-term plans. Impacts to historic 

structures will be minimized and fewer residences are within one block of the Tenth Street corridor." For 

those reasons, I am supporting Alternative 2A, Tenth Street corridor in Springfield, Illinois for the Chicago to 

St. Louis High Speed Rail project. Thank you for your time and utmost consideration. 
Overall 

Comment No.

Draft EIS 

Volume Topic Commenter Comment Response

Online Comments Received through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Website www.idothsr.org or Written Comments sent to IDOT

SPIOC286 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Alonzo, Loretta

Illinois Association of 

Realtors

As president of the Illinois Association of REAL TORS® (IAR), the largest group of real estate professionals in 

Illinois, I am writing in support of the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Tier 1 Draft 

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) which has identified the 10th Street Corridor in Springfield as the 

preferred alternative for high-speed passenger and freight rail service from Chicago to St. Louis.

IAR strongly agrees with IDOT, as well as with the Capital Area Association of REAL TORS®, the Greater 

Springfield Chamber of Commerce, and Downtown Springfield, INC; and joins with a multitude of civic 

groups, impacted business owners, and concerned citizens in supporting the 10th Street option, known as 

"Alternative 2A". Alternative 2A is the most responsible choice for expanding rail service ~ithout negatively 

impacting residents, businesses, historical and cultural sites, the medical district, and the overall economic 

health of the City of Springfield. Alternative 2A will: * Make all portions of Springfield safer by reducing the 

number of grade crossing and therefore reducing opportunities for vehicle collisions. * Better connect our 

Gommllnity by improving cross traffic and reducing vehicle delays. * Eliminate hom noise by establishing a 

quite zone in the city of Springfield. * Allow the Medical district to grow together and create good paying 

construction and high-wage medical jobs throughout Springfield. * Minimize the impact on Springfield's 

older.residential neighborhoods, including fewer residential and commercial displacements. * Preserve the 

character of historic downtown Springfield as well as .other historic sites throughout the city. * Allow for 

construction of a new multimodal train station and transit center on the 10th Street corridor which will help 

spur much needed commercial and residential development on the near east side of Springfield. * 

Enhances the quality of life along the 19th Street corridor by creating a quite zone and reducing traffic 

delays.

In summary, we believe that the reasons for pursuing Alternative 2A are compelling and would strongly 

encourage the adoption of this Draft EIS.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC287 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Wheeland, Linda

Springfield Area 

Transportation Study

Enclosed is a resolution adopted by the Springfield Area Transportation Study (SATS), the Metropolitan 

Planning Organization for the Springfield, Illinois area. The resolution supports the selection of Alternative 

2A, the identified preferred route for high speed rail through Springfield in the recently released Tier 2 

Draft Environmental Impact Statement Evaluation of Springfield Rail Improvements Project. Alternative 2A 

relocates the existing Union Pacific freight and rail line on the Third Street corridor to the Tenth Street 

corridor. The consolidation of these raj/lines onto the Tenth Street corridor has been a long time goal of 

SATS.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply

SPIOC288 Tier 2 Support Preferred 

Alt

Brake, Gloria My opinion is it would make more sense to choose the 10th street rail line. For one it would keep the trains 

out of the middle of the City. #2 There are already 2 underpasses on the 10th Street line. One on E Cook St 

and another on S Grande Ave. So please choose the 10th St line.

Comment Noted - Standard Response Letter sent as Reply
Public Hearing 

Comment Response Letters 
{Date}

{First and Last Name}

{Address}

{City, State & Zip}

Dear {Alt. Salutation & Last Name}:

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) would like to thank you for 

providing comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the 

Chicago to St. Louis High-Speed Rail Corridor Program. With the completion of 

this Tier 1 Draft EIS, IDOT has reached an important milestone in the Chicago to 

St. Louis High-Speed Rail Program. 

The Tier 1 Draft EIS is the planning document for the long-term vision of the 284-

mile corridor between Chicago and St. Louis. The Tier 1 Draft EIS examined, in 

broad terms, the environmental effects of adding a second track and related 

major infrastructure components throughout the corridor, as well as the effects of 

the type of service being proposed. The document also identifies potential route 

alternatives and includes corridor wide ridership projections. The information 

identified and developed in the Tier 1 EIS process will be critical as the Chicago 

to St. Louis High-Speed rail program moves forward.

Your comment will be included as part of the official public hearing record. On 

August 20, 2012, the official comment period for the Draft EIS ended. At this time 

IDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) are moving forward to 

complete a Final EIS. The Final EIS will include a response to all comments 

received during the comment period. IDOT and FRA anticipate the completion of 

the Final EIS by the end of 2012.

If you have any additional questions or require additional information, please 

contact Miriam Gutierrez, Bureau Chief of High-Speed and Passenger Rail, at 

(312) 793-4803.

Sincerely,

John Oimoen

Deputy Director of Railroads

Division of Public and Intermodal Transportation
{Date}

{First and Last Name}

{Address}

{City, State & Zip}

Dear {Alt. Salutation & Last Name}:

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) would like to thank you for 

providing a comment on the Tier 1 Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) 

for the Chicago to St. Louis High-Speed Rail Corridor Program. With the 

completion of this Draft EIS, IDOT has reached an important milestone in the 

Chicago to St. Louis High-Speed Rail Program.

The Tier 1 Draft EIS is the planning document for the long-term vision of the 284-

mile corridor between Chicago and St. Louis. The Tier 1 Draft EIS examined, in 

broad terms, the environmental effects of adding a second track and related 

major infrastructure components throughout the corridor, as well as the effects of 

the type of service being proposed. The document also identifies potential route 

alternatives and includes corridor wide ridership projections. The information 

identified and developed in the Tier 1 EIS process will be critical as the Chicago 

to St. Louis High-Speed rail program moves forward.

Any potential property acquisitions, as described in the Draft EIS, are preliminary, 

and may change as the process moves forward. In addition, no funding is 

currently available for property acquisitions related to this study. Long before any 

property acquisition is performed, IDOT and the project team will provide 

information about the process. 

Your comment will be included as part of the official public hearing record. On 

August 20, 2012, the official comment period for the Draft EIS ended. At this time 

IDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) are moving forward to 

complete a Final EIS. The Final EIS will include a response to all comments 

received during the comment period. IDOT and FRA anticipate the completion of 

the Final EIS by the end of 2012.

If you have any additional questions or require additional information, please 

contact Miriam Gutierrez, Bureau Chief of High-Speed and Passenger Rail, at 

(312) 793-4803.

Sincerely,

John Oimoen

Deputy Director of Railroads

Division of Public and Intermodal Transportation
Notice of Availability